Exam 15: Interpersonal and Organizational Communication: Mastering the Exchange of Information

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Even though there is some art and science to networking, the following tips can improve your networking competencies.
Create a Positive Mindset. A negative attitude about networking is a roadblock to developing this competency. Pursue a more positive attitude by eliminating the thought that networking is a game. Networking is more enjoyable when it is driven by your authentic intention to develop genuine relationships, rather than being something required for getting a job. Strive to view networking as a vehicle to make more friends and connect with people with similar interests. This mindset is more likely to take you further with the relationship because it creates shared bonding rather than the pursuit of self-interests. When meeting someone from the first time, keep it light, look for common interests, and demonstrate "True" interest.
Identify Your Career Goals. Before doing any networking, you need to be clear about your goals and plans. Establish a 5- to 10-year career goal and then develop a high-level action plan for accomplishing it.
Network with a Purpose. Have a purpose for attending networking events. Do you want to reconnect with friends and acquaintances, or do you want to meet new people? What type of people do you want to meet? Look for people with common interests who can help you and people whom you can help. Research shows that networkers tend to spend the majority of their time with people they already know, so avoid putting pressure on yourself to meet strangers.
Build Personal Connections. The key is to draw people into meaningful conversations. People will remember more about you if the conversation is meaningful and has some degree of emotionality.
Be Mindful. It's worth emphasizing the need to be mindful when communicating with others. Try your best to avoid phubbing and FOMO. Maintain eye contact with those with whom you are conversing, and avoid the tendency to let wandering eyes survey the room for the next person you want to meet. That's an easy way to send the message that the person in front of you is not important.
Follow Up. Be sure to follow up with those individuals you found particularly interesting or would like to see again. Use whatever medium of communication you deem relevant. While texting and e-mail are fast, we have had very positive experiences when we've written a handwritten note of appreciation.