{"id":1180,"date":"2012-12-19T07:50:05","date_gmt":"2012-12-19T07:50:05","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.theaccent.org\/?p=1180"},"modified":"2012-12-19T07:50:05","modified_gmt":"2012-12-19T07:50:05","slug":"7-steps-to-successful-networking-and-self-promotion","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sites.austincc.edu\/accent\/7-steps-to-successful-networking-and-self-promotion\/","title":{"rendered":"Professional Development: 7 Steps to Successful Networking and Self-Promotion"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Story by Era Sundar, Audio Editor<\/p>\n

Networking and self-promotion are vital to building a successful career. Prospective clients and potential employers can only reach out to you if they know who you are and what you have to offer. This seven-step guide is designed to help up-and-coming professionals make positive and lasting impressions.<\/p>\n


\n1. \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Go where the action is<\/b><\/b><\/p>\n

Join professional societies and attend trade shows and other networking events. This strategy allows emerging entrepreneurs to connect with mentors and influential members of the business community.<\/p>\n

2. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Carry simple, attractive business cards<\/b><\/b><\/p>\n

Name and contact information should appear in an easy to read, uncluttered format. A tasteful design that says something about the card owner without obstructing the print is an added bonus.<\/p>\n

Incorporate some blank space into the design on the front or back of the card. Careerealism.com suggests making a brief note in that space to remind the card recipient of your conversation. Also invest in a card case to keep business cards neat and easily accessible.<\/p>\n

When receiving a business card, take a moment to show interest. Hold it in both hands, repeat the owner\u2019s name and make a positive comment about the design if practical.<\/p>\n

3. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Prepare and rehearse a 30-second elevator pitch<\/b><\/b><\/p>\n

A 30-second elevator pitch is a brief statement of who you are and what you do, what you bring to the table, and if appropriate, what you want someone to do for you. End with an explanation of how and why your proposal will be successful. The pitch should reflect your passion and interest.<\/p>\n

4. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Learn how to \u201cwork the room\u201d<\/b><\/b><\/p>\n

At networking events, make an effort to meet several new people. Introduce yourself with a warm smile, extend a firm handshake and make direct eye contact.<\/p>\n

Diane Gottsman, a national etiquette expert and the owner of The Protocol School of Texas, said that both men and women should stand when approached for an introduction. She advised holding drinks in the left hand to prevent cold, wet handshakes.<\/p>\n

Prepare for small talk by becoming familiar with current events, local or national sports and new developments in your industry. A quick way to get up to speed is to read the daily headlines and skim a few articles. But don\u2019t feel obligated to do all the talking. Show interest in the other person by asking questions and listening attentively.<\/p>\n

During a conversation, say the other person\u2019s name. The repetition will help lock it in memory. If a name is forgotten, simply say, \u201cPlease remind me of your name.\u201d There is no need to be embarrassed.<\/p>\n

When making introductions, say the more important person\u2019s name first. For example, a client\u2019s name comes before a colleague\u2019s or boss\u2019s name.<\/p>\n

Seven to 10 minutes is a reasonable time for a conversation. Remember, the goal is to meet several people. When it\u2019s time to move on, make a graceful exit.<\/p>\n

\u201cExtend your hand. That\u2019s a signal that the conversation is coming to a close, because you extend your hand for a handshake to greet someone or to leave,\u201d Gottsman said. \u201cIf someone is monopolizing your time, extend your hand and say, \u2018There\u2019s someone over there I need to talk to, it\u2019s been nice talking to you.\u2019 Then make a gracious exit. \u201d<\/p>\n

5. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Build a versatile wardrobe<\/b><\/b><\/p>\n

Some industries have a more casual dress code than others, however, it\u2019s still important to maintain a couple of formal outfits for special occasions such as networking events, company parties and coworker weddings.<\/p>\n

Wear a watch. In recent years, the cellphone has become a primary source of timekeeping. But at interviews and business events, a watch should be worn by both men and women.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a detail. It shows that you have good time management skills, and you don\u2019t want to look down at your cellphone,\u201d Gottsman said.<\/p>\n

Cellphones are best kept silent and out of sight. Looking at them, even to tell time, gives the impression of being distracted.<\/p>\n

6. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Learn and practice proper dining etiquette<\/b><\/b><\/p>\n

Dining etiquette is important, not because dinner companions are judging you, but to prevent stress caused by not knowing what to do. Internal conflicts as to which fork or glass to use will show on your face and cause distraction, Gottsman said.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou want to be able to maneuver the meal with ease so you can pay attention to the person sitting across from you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Quick Dining Guide:<\/p>\n