Networking – schmoozing, mingling and everything in between

Defined broadly, networking means using people you know, both on a personal level and on a professional level as a source for information and support for your job search.

When you are looking for work, you should be sure to let these people know what kind of job you want, and what skills and abilities you can offer a potential employer.

Don’t leave anyone out! In addition to having a systematic plan for networking – volunteering, career fairs, conferences or through associations in the field in which you want to work – you should take advantage of chance meetings with people who might be able to help you.

Make the most of parties, family reunions, athletic clubs, community groups and other places or events at which you can meet people who might help you get the job you want. You should also consider job shadowing and informational interviews as great ways to meet people in your chosen field and find out what types of jobs are available within a company or industry.

The beginning of the school year is a time when you’ll find many companies are on campus to talk about career opportunities they may have for you. Recruitment activities such as career fairs and corporate information sessions provide you with an excellent opportunity to research a company you may be interested in working for when you graduate.

These recruitment activities give you the chance to gather information about the company and to talk with employees (often your school’s alumni) about their career paths. Be sure to take advantage of these opportunities.

When attending any networking activities consider the following:

Prepare – do some homework about the companies and about yourself. Your career centre’s website is a great place to start. Also check with the office about career planning sessions available to you, so that you can determine what kind of company you want to pursue in your chosen career path.

Identify yourself – If nametags are available at an event, please use them! Company representatives want to put a name to a face. And unless you’re the artist formerly known as Prince, use both your first and last names.

Dress for the occasion – Find out what the recommended dress is for the event. Do not embarrass yourself by assuming that jeans and a sweatshirt are acceptable – oftentimes they are not.

Do not "clump up" – Talk with your friends afterwards. Break away from the group and talk with the presenters, company representatives, and alumni from your school or anyone else you think might be a good contact.

Get business cards – If a company representative, family friend or new acquaintance makes a favourable impression, ask for a business card and be sure to refer to that individual in your cover letter. And if you forget everything else...

• Introduce yourself and make sure that you listen for the employer’s name.
• Offer a firm handshake.
• Make eye contact.
• Smile!