New to Networking?

I have been meeting with co-workers joining professional organizations and students just entering the workforce and realized that networking doesn't come naturally to everyone (I take for granted that I network everywhere....seriously, everywhere all the time). Did you ever get in trouble in high school for talking in class? Well, you were "networking" and creating a personal brand. Now there are formal sessions for this without being rude to your teacher (sorry, Mrs. Schwartzwald, but I still don't use Algebra). Okay, okay, my point...take the pain out of it and have a little fun in the professional social scene. Maybe start at a small mixer to get some practice before moving on to a larger or higher profile venue. I assembled a few tips to use, my top 5 are listed below:

1. Get LinkedIn - this is the Holy Grail of networking. Get signed up if not already. This allows people a frame of reference so they can find you and connect.


2. Homework - I know, I know, but work with me here. Most events have a RSVP or sign up list....so look up the contacts before the event. This will put faces to names and help you know who you should be targeting to speak to for opportunities (especially if you check out their profile on LinkedIn). You want to be efficient and make the best use of your time, right? Creating a "key connections" list will help you - think of it like a scavenger hunt (see? FUN!).


3. Early bird catches the worm - show up early so you can "catch" your contact as they walk in and make your move.


4. Have a list of helpful intros (little conversation starters). Make your friendly intro, then maybe start with something interesting or odd that recently happened to break the ice (natural "stories" are highly effective). I went to a networking event recently where the parking attendant ran out of the booth to my car to ask me to park in the dead center of the parking space...seriously, blew my mind - he said he wanted to ensure no cars got scratched. Oh yes, I used that as an ice breaker 10 minutes later.


5. "80% of success is just showing up" (Woody Allen) - the people at networking events have the same goal you do....they want to meet people! So relax, grab a drink, take a deep breath and introduce yourself. Not all of your new contacts will lead to your ultimate success, but trust me, they are small steps to get you there.

Welcome to Talent Management - Talent Management

This is a great article about how recruiters find you via social media. Find tips to showcase your profile on sites like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, as well as other niche sites that focus on your targeted skill set. Know what the market is out there and how to make yourself seen....and heard. Welcome to Talent Management - Talent Management

Be Aware of Your Personal Brand

If I mention Lindsay Lohan, what is the first thing you think of? What about Brittany Spears? OK, enough pop culture....what about Kenneth Lay and Bernie Madoff? No matter your opinion on the ethical impasse of these individuals, the reality is that it has come to define them. A reputation is established, a brand is made, and it ain't pretty.

The same rules apply in the work place when building your own personal brand. Be aware of ears and eyes on what you say and do if you want a reputable name for yourself. Wild stories are told over and over again - it is hard to erase inappropriate behavior and the memories that linger. Make sure your LinkedIn profile photo is professional, people WILL look you up. If you are connected to co-workers and professional cohorts on Facebook and Twitter, be aware of not only your photo but of your posts. Your words are very public these days and can be viewed by most, so have something positive to say and keep your moral compass pointing North :o)

7 Secrets to Making Recruiters Find You

I really liked this post so I want to share it:

7 Secrets to Making Recruiters Find You

Resume Writing - a few tips and resources

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send your resume to strangers...and lots of them!

The art of "applying to a job" and waiting for a phone call is so last decade. It's all about networking and despite your mother's warning about talking to strangers, it's a must to get hired. Go to networking events, get LinkedIn, and find out who's who in your niche area....then start talking! Send your resume, ask the questions, people like to help people and pay it forward. Keep talking to strangers, it will help land you a great job....it did for me :)

Recruiting via Social Media

OK, so I am up and runnign with a blog. Bare with me. Let's talk recruiting.....