Obey the 10 Commandments of Networking

Obey the 10 Commandments of NetworkingThe 10 Commandments of NetworkingObey the 10 Commandments of NetworkingNetworking doesnt come easily to everyone, and it can be downright scary if youre suddenly thrust into the ranks of the unemployed. In todays shaky job market, it can be petrifying.Scary, petrifying, or neither, networking must be a cornerstone of your job search strategy. If it doesnt come easily to you, follow these 10 commandments of networkingThou shalt learn the ways of social media, even if it scares the crap out of thou. Build a social media presence, especially on LinkedIn. Then, contribute to discussion groups to demonstrate your professional expertise. Tip Making a periodic adjustment to your profile can help move it toward the top of search rankings if someone were to do a web search for your name or, say, a previous employer.Thou shalt not limit thy networking efforts to the web. Social media is only an enabler. Theres no substitute for face-to-face communication i n the job search because you can discover much more about someone than whats posted on the web. So, attend job fairs and find job search beistand groups and professional associations in your area.Thou shalt giveth as gracefully as thou taketh. Dont engage with someone with the sole intent of finding a job lead or two. You have contacts. You have job leads that may not interest you but may interest someone else. Share that information with other job seekers. The more youre seen as a giver, the easier it will be for others to share their contacts and leads with you.Thou shalt know thyself well. You must be able to articulate your skills and experience clearly, in writing and in casual conversation.Thou shalt not cometh off as stiff. Seriously, you gotta loosen up. Be congenial, look others in the eye, and show a genuine interest in what they say. Live in the momentThou shalt smile, even if it hurts. Smiling is usually equated with congeniality. If youre self-conscious about your yello w teeth, whiten them.Thou shalt have a business card and resume ready at all times. Go into each event thinking youll meet someone who will want to know more about your background, and who may refer your name and contact information to someone else (possibly your next boss). Your business card and resume should include the internetadresse to your web site or social networking profile.Thou shalt giveth thyself a thorough, critical self-evaluation after every in-person networking event. Take a few minutes to think about things you said and how you said them. If you think you could have expressed something better, make adjustments for the next event.Thou shalt wear the right clothing to every in-person event. Shorts and sandals wont cut it, unless its a beach party or picnic. Proper business attire is appropriate for networking events unless the organizer states otherwise.Thou shalt not be a pain in the posterior. Theres a fine line between staying in touch and stalking. Make sure ever y interaction either in person, via email, or online has substance and value.Your mission in networking is to get hired while helping others get hired. Its serious stuff and theres potential in every substantive interaction. In todays economy, you need to explore every possible route to land the job.