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Concluding Tips
- Effective networking requires self-confidence, poise and personal conviction. If you are a newcomer to Canada or your area, attend community events so you can become more familiar with your neighbourhood and its businesses and organizations.
- You must first know the companies and organizations for which you wish to work. That will determine the type of network you will develop.
- Focus on meeting the "right person". This takes planning and preparation.
- Ask for advice and not a job.
- Get comfortable on the telephone. Good telephone communication skills are critical.
- Don't fear rejection. If a contact cannot help you, move on to the next contact. Do not take it personally - it's just part of the process.
- Keep in touch with the major contacts in your network on a monthly basis. Remember, out of sight, out of mind.
- Networking is a two way street. Be honest and brief and offer your contacts something in return for their time, advice, and information.
- Send thank you notes following each networking contact.
- Carry business cards with you at all times to hand out to everyone with whom you come in contact.
- Show an interest in the people who are your network contacts. Remember that every positive interaction will benefit you and support your career goals.
- Tell everyone you know that you are job hunting, and politely ask them to keep you in mind if they hear of anything, without becoming a pest about it. Thank anyone who gives you a tip.
