HOW CAN I BUILD A NETWORK OF CONTACTS? (part 3)
Thank God for LinkedIn!
As an apprentice, university 'drop out' or graduate is hard to find opportunities that allow you to be in business circles that will create chances for you to build valuable professional/ career contacts.
How can I network with people?
Ø JOIN LINKEDIN – ASAP!
Ø Research networking events on event sites – some are FREE!
Ø Attend career fairs /events and company open days
Ø Family and friends – first and easiest point of contact
Ø Past and present co-workers, managers, supervisors or colleagues
Ø Other students from your school may have gone on to do different things that could be helpful to you.
Ø People from your church, community, neighbour or gym.
Ø Business associates
Ø Past clients or customers
Ø People you meet and engage in professional/ productive conversations about your career
It's important to know your network will only grow as much as you network. It will include people you know very well, referrals and acquaintances.
If you want to grow your network – NETWORK!
(Next post – Attending Networking Events)