Shining at networking events

June 15, 8:28 AMEntry Level Careers ExaminerHeather Huhman

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After spending last week exhibiting at the 2009 National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Annual Conference, I was reminded about some important networking rules. Even though I attended as a representative of Come Recommended and not a student or recent graduate seeking an internship or entry-level job, the same basic rules apply.

1. Have your elevator pitch ready. “Come Recommended is an exclusive online community connecting the best internship and entry-level job candidates with the best employers, only allowing participation from those who come highly recommended.” I had that down and could go into more detail when asked—no problems there. Do you have the same flexibility with your elevator pitch? It’s important to have a 30- to 60-second description of your background when attending networking events. What is your “professional profile” you want others to know about you when you first meet? Also, be prepared to answer and anticipate those follow-up questions.

2. Come with materials. I didn’t do so well in this area, but in my defense, Come Recommended is only a few weeks old. However, I know next year I need a brochure that encompasses both my elevator speech and answers to the questions I anticipate people asking. (I also need better signage so people can find me!) Materials you might bring to a networking event include your résumé and an abbreviated version of your portfolio. Also, make and bring business cards! Be sure to include the URL to your online portfolio. While I didn’t have brochures, answers to most people’s questions could be found online, and Come Recommended’s URL is included on my business cards.

3. Know the dress code, and dress one level above. I actually didn’t know the dress code prior to attending the event, so I brought both suits and skirts. I ended up wearing the suits to dress one step above my audience (and frankly for the shoe comfort since I would be standing all day). If you’re attending a networking event, it’s best to dress as though you were going to an interview if you don’t know the dress code. After all, we’re always being interviewed. (First impressions count!)

4. Collect business cards, and make notes on the back. When you exchange business cards, it’s important to write on the back a few notes about your conversation so you can follow-up with the individual later. (This is a good trick during formal interviews, as well.) Perhaps they ask you questions and tell you to e-mail them—you’re never going to remember after meeting so many people unless you write it down.

5. Follow-up. For every conversation you had at the networking event, there should be some sort of follow-up—whether it’s an e-mail, phone call or meeting for coffee/lunch. As we all know, follow-up is key to landing an internship or entry-level job these days, so take advantage of this with your new contacts. There’s no need to follow-up the day after unless specifically asked, but definitely do so within a week at the most.

Bonus tip: If you’re nervous about walking up and starting conversations with people you don’t know, bring a “wingman”—a friend of yours who isn’t shy in situations like this. I think you’ll find his or her company will help you open up to strangers and make better use out of the event.