The Art of Networking
Tuesday June 2, 2015
By: Jared Dunlap
IIE Young Professional President-Elect
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Agenda
• Welcome
8:00 – 8:05
• What is Networking?
8:05 – 8:20
• Speed Networking
8:20 – 8:45
• YP Networking Panel
8:45 – 9:10
• Final Q&A
9:10 – 9:15
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So what is professional networking?
Networking:
The exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or
institutions. Specifically, the cultivation of productive relationships for
employment or business.
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Why is networking so important?
Benefits of Networking:
Shared Knowledge
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Receive feedback
Learn valuable traits from others
Opportunities
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Job opportunities
Business opportunities
Connections
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Gain exposure with others
Develop networks (1st, 2nd, and 3rd connections)
Raising Your Profile
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Becoming visible/recognized
Build a positive reputation
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“Networking is hard” Why?
Obstacles:
First Time
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“I never had to network in college”
Where do I even start?
Topic(s)
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What should I talk about?
Personality Types
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Fear to meet new people
Shy personalities
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How can I network?
Types of Networking:
Face-to-Face Networking
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Networking Events
Business Events
Social & Cultural Events
Academic Seminars/ Conferences
General Networking
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Friends
Family members
Professional Contacts
Online Networking
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Social Media (LinkedIn, job posting communities, etc.)
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Who do I network with?
Finding Connections:
Who do you already know?
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Make an initial contacts list (name, location, company, etc.)
Who would you like to know?
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Professionals in your industry
Role models
Potential mentors/coaches
Locals in your community
How will you connect with them?
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Social events
Professional organization(s)
Work function(s)
Social media
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Networking Activity #1
Speed Networking
Rules:
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Form two parallel lines
Split up from your group/friends/classmates/etc.
You will have 2 minutes to network with the person across from you
Buzzer will sound when the 2 minutes are up
The line will shift so a new person is across from you
Duration
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20 minutes
Opportunity to network with 10 different people
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Networking Activity #2
IIE Young Professional (YP) Panel
Rules:
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Ask the YP’s a question about networking. What do you want to know?
Question can be asked from the pre-developed list or a specific one you have
Duration
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25 minutes
Opportunity to learn ANYTHING you want about networking!
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Networking Activity #2
YP Networking Panel Discussion
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How do I find networking groups and events?
Is there a certain dress code for networking events?
Any recommended topics for discussion?
What are some common networking mistakes?
How should I follow-up after meeting someone?
Does LinkedIn really work?
How can I expand my network after graduation?
Any tips on maintaining my network?
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