Start networking early
Build up networking contacts at school, university or college. A fellow student in your network may go for an interview at a top restaurant where you too want to work. She gets the job and the restaurant manager asks her if he knows anyone else from college who is a good potential employee. Your friend suggests you and you get an interview...
Choose your network carefully
At work, your networking group can include colleagues past and present as well work-related acquaintances. If you're looking to widen your network, consider getting to know people who can influence your career in a positive way, and who are honest and reliable.
Go to networking events
Any work-related event is an opportunity to network and meet new contacts. It may be an informal social event, industry conference, dinner or association meeting. If you can get hold of a list of attendees, you can plan who you want to talk to before you go.
Don't be nervous
It can be a little daunting entering a room full of people. Just remember, a lot of them may be in the same position as you, so relax and be natural. You'll probably find you know a couple of people, who in turn will hopefully introduce you to their acquaintances.
Introduce yourself clearly
When speaking to someone you don't know, introduce yourself at the start ? for example: "I'm Barry and I'm a chef at the Hilton on King Street." Follow up with something like: "Can I ask what you do?" To avoid awkward silences, keep asking open-ended questions (ones that need more than a simple ?yes" or ?no" answer) so that you can keep the person talking. And use the other person's name to help you remember it and reassure them that you are interested in them.
Bow out gracefully
To end a conversation simply smile, shake hands and say something like: "It was great talking to you." Don't feel as if you have to talk to anyone all night ? they probably want to network too. If the person is particularly interesting or useful, make sure you suggest chatting again and get their details before you both move on.
Collect business cards
Use the back of cards to write notes about the person when you get home, such as what they look like, who they know and any interesting things about them. If you've got them, don't forget to hand out your own cards too.
Be positive and professional
You need to portray a positive and professional image to your networking colleagues whenever you meet. "What stands out about a person, even if you meet them briefly, is how they handle themselves. Try to
be positive at all times, even if you are not feeling it inside," says Chris Sheppardson, managing director of recruitment consultancy Chess Partnership.
Avoid gossip
Bad-mouthing other people gives the wrong impression and might lead your networking colleagues to wonder what you are saying about them behind their back.
Stay in regular contact
You don't have to meet your network contacts to keep up with them and their news. You can call or send an email. After an event, it's always good to email the people you talked to and say how nice it was to meet them.
Return your network calls
You know how it feels if someone doesn't return your call, or forgets a request you've made. So if someone calls you, make sure you call them back.