Networking

1. Networking

2. What’s a Network? “ A system of interconnectivity where one element supports, assists, promotes, or redirects other parts of the system; all parts of the system are often interdependent”

3. Why is a network important? • Provides support, guidance, direction, and advice • Mentor can be a teacher, coach, or helper • Advances your standing in the profession • Can provide you with opportunities that would not otherwise come your way • Access to private information • Access to diverse skills sets

4. A Career Network Nurture your network relationships by: • Checking your attitude • Develop human relationship skills • Commit yourself to self-improvement • Find a mentor or be a mentor

5. A Good Mentor is… • Experienced in the field • Has good job skills • Knowledgeable of the job, the profession, and the market • Observant • Listens well • Shares well

6. Network within your firm • Learn about office politics • Match your style to the firm culture • Think several moves in advance • Do something for others • Know the “right” people

7. Things to watch out for • Too much self-similarity • Too many people in your network are just like you • Too many have the same information • Proximity principal • People in your network are the ones that you spend the most time with • With these two principles you won’t enrich your networks

8. Networking Experiences Can anyone tell me an example of where a network helped them? Can you think of an example where a network would have helped you?