HOW TO BE A GREAT NETWORKER!

Kim BilawchukCareer Coach

www.kbcareercoach.com

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Who Am I?• I LOVE networking! • I’m doing my dream job –

coaching young professionals who are feeling “stuck” to find their dream job

• 16+ jobs in 25 years: high tech, financial services, higher education, retail.

• BBA, UMass Amherst• MBA, Boston College• MEd, Boston University• Live in Lowell, MA

OutlineWhat is Networking?Why Network?How to Network?Special Offer

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WHAT is Networking?

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What is Networking?1. a supportive system of sharing information and

services among individuals and groups having a common interest

2. a communication process involving the exchange of information, advice and referrals.

3. a fabric or structure of cords or wires that cross at regular intervals and are knotted or secured at the crossings

4. an extended group of people with similar interests or concerns who interact and remain in informal contact for mutual assistance or support

Dictionary.com

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WHY Network?

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Why Network?75+% of jobs are never advertisedTo gather more information about other

career choices (informational interviewing)To keep current in your industry or fieldTo build business contacts/relationshipsTo have access to different points of viewTo meet new people and make new friends It’s FUN!

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Networking BenefitsStay connected with colleagues at other

companies/industriesGain focus about your career choice and

directionGet advice about your job searchValidate your choicesRefine your interviewing skillsUncover job & employer information

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Networking MythsNetworking is only for the well-connectedNetworking is only for extrovertsNetworking is bothering peopleNetworking is asking for a jobNetworking is only for the unemployed

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HOW do I start?

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Start today!Develop your list of contacts and reach out to

themShare your brand. What do you want people

to know about you?Create/practice self-introductions (elevator

pitch)Conduct informational interviewsAttend networking eventsNurture individual relationshipsCreate a solid LinkedIn profile

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Your Network ContactsFamilyNeighborsCurrent and past co-

workersProfessors, advisors,

classmatesCommunity

organizations & activities

Professional associations

Speakers & career fair reps

Internet discussion groups, chat rooms, and networks

Hairdressers, health care providers

Other people you know

ANYONE!

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What’s your brand?What skills do you have?What interests you personally and

professionally?What values are important to you?What to you have to offer a potential

employer?

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30-Second Elevator pitchDemonstrate 2-3 key skills that you believe

are important and set you apart from your competition.

Emphasize your strengths.Be comfortable with the words you

choose.Deliver with confidence and without error.It’s not just about you.Practice, practice, practice!

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What to Include in Your PitchYour full nameTitle/organization/role/experienceRelevant skills/experience/educationOpportunities you are seeking, or interested

in learning aboutEngaging question/results statement to invite

further conversation

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Sample Elevator PitchHello, my name is Kim Bilawchuk. I help people

find interesting, rewarding jobs. I help them find their passions and transition to new more rewarding work roles/jobs. I help my clients explore their career goals, reflect on self-assessment exercises, and develop essential career tools such as resume writing, interviewing, networking, negotiation and job search strategies. I offer complimentary consultations to anyone who wants to learn more about how coaching works. Are you interested?

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EXERCISE:

Let’s practice your

elevator pitchnow

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Informational InterviewsWhat is informational interviewing?How do I prepare?Should I bring a copy of my resume?What should I wear?

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Questions To AskWhat do you do in a typical workday?How did you get started in this job? What

experience, education, skills did you need?What do you (dis)like about your job?What advice would you give me if I were

interested in this career/industry? What classes should I take? Experiences?

Who else do you know that I can talk to?

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Questions You May Be AskedHow did you become interested in this

career/job?What do you know about this career?What have you learned from your work or

courses that is relevant?

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Closing The Informational InterviewBe considerate of contact’s timeOffer to stay in touchExpress appreciationSend a thank you note ASAP!

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Attend networking eventsSet a goal for each event you attendWhat do you want to accomplish?

Meeting new people – how many? From a certain industry/company?

Reconnecting with those you already know? Gathering content knowledge from subject-matter

expert? Going out for a drink?

Follow-up with people you meet

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Business CardsInclude:

NameEmailPhoneTitle/area of interestLinkedIn URL

Use back for elevator pitchPrint yourself or professionally

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Nurture Your NetworkRegularly communicate accomplishments to

key members of networkRegularly send personal notes and birthday

and holiday cardsAct as a source of information for members

of your networkNever abuse the network relationship

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How do you look online?Google yourself. Today. Regularly.Review your Facebook privacy settings.Develop your LinkedIn profile

Start building your network TODAYConnect with at least 2 professional

associations

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Why do I need a LinkedIn Profile?150+ Million membersShare your brand

Personal/professionalGrow your network

Quality > QuantityNurture individual relationships

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ConclusionNetworking IS for everyoneNetworking helps build self-confidenceNetworking allows you to share your brandNetworking helps you choose the right career

and uncover jobsNetworking pays dividends throughout your

career whether you’re happily employed or looking for new opportunities

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Today’s Special OfferKickstart Your Career Strategy Session

45-minute complimentary 1-1 session with KimUncover the hidden challenges that keep you

from going for your dream jobIdentify at least one step you can easily take to

get into action FAST Develop a customized networking plan to help

you secure your dream job

It’s not who you know but who knows you.

What are you waiting for?

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Leverage LinkedIn For your Career Success

Tuesday3.20.12

8pm ESTRegister at:

www.kbcareercoach.com/webinars

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Thank you!Don’t forget to contact me if you’re

interested in your complimentary Kickstart Your Career Strategy SessionApply at ww.kbcareercoach.com

SurveyQ&AConnect with me!

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kimbilawcukFacebook: www.facebook.com/kbcareercoach