We all know we have to do it, and we all believe it to be one of the toughest parts about finding a job. Networking can be a scary feat, but knowing a few tips about how to approach it, and how not to, can ease tension and land you that killer job.
DO:
- Create an “elevator pitch” and know it inside and out
The elevator pitch is all about first impressions. This is the first verbal imprint you are giving potential employers, and you want them to remember you, while also keeping it short and simple. Be engaging, and keep it true to your individual personality.
- Put your career-cap on
Before you attend any networking events, or speak to any potential employers, it’s a good idea to put your mind into the right field. Dive into networking with nothing else cluttering your mind! Have questions made and ready that you want to know and that will impress the professionals. Think critically about who it is you most want to talk to, what you intend to say to them, and what they even could ask you. The more prepared you are, the less nervous you will be.
Smiling when networking is both engaging and shows openness. Employers can tell a lot about your personality by reading your facial expressions, so make sure your game face is on!
Smiling when networking is both engaging and shows openness. Employers can tell a lot about your personality by reading your facial expressions, so make sure your game face is on!
- Know your 4 P’s
Professionalism, portfolio, prep, and polish. These four important aspects to networking will have you stand out from the rest of the potential candidates. Dress to impress and practice your handshake. Have a pristine portfolio, with many copies, at the ready. Know the company and research who you’ll be speaking with. And finally, know your end goal and practice that pitch!
- Fashionably late doesn’t exist in the public relations world – follow up!
Whether you are seeking a job, internship, or just a simple connection, you have two important tasks at hand: you want to stand out and be remembered. An easy way to do this is by following up with companies and employees! Save their emails, addresses, or LinkedIn profiles, and send them a message after your meeting. By thanking them for their time and information and expressing your interest one last time really shows passion, dedication, and professionalism!
Don’t:
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions
Asking questions not only benefits you in terms of absorbing even more information, but it also shows employers that you aren’t afraid to speak up and that you are hungry for knowledge. Plus it shows that you seize opportunities!
- Don’t have inappropriate social media accounts public
This is especially true when you are connecting on LinkedIn or giving out your Twitter handles, but employers can still find you online just with your name alone. Inappropriate posts or tweets could be the determining factor between you and another candidate, and not in the good way
Now that you know what it takes, follow the do’s, avoid the don’ts, and go land that job!
Contribution By: Lauren Mancini
Lauren Mancini, puppy-enthusiast and coffee lover extraordinaire, is a senior at the University of Delaware, pursuing a degree in Mass Communications and a minor in Journalism. Lauren is a member of PRSSA-UD and a Hens All Access multimedia intern for UD’s athletics. Connect with her on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/laurenmancini.
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