Networking

It’s a skill that can be learned

What you will learn

Starting a ConversationBuilding RelationshipsStaying in TouchBuilding a networking planNetworking Groups & eventsUsing Social Media for networking

• Build reputation• Advance career• Build relationships• Make sales• Make contacts• Get prospects• Get known

Why Network?

Bad networking habits

• Hanging with the same person

• Staying at the food table/bar

• Not engaging in full conversations

Starting Conversations

• Tip 1 : Set a Goal(set a realistic goal before attending an event)

• Tip 2 : Avoid being a professional visitor(a person who attends a networking event andimmediately gravitates to the same group of friends)• Tip 3 : Be genuinely interested in people

(get to know people, look them in the eye) but don’t stare!

• Tip 4 : Ask open ended questions(tell me about the work you do, how did

you get into the industry, what do you like best about what you do?)

Elevator Pitch• Have a well rehearsed explanation of who

you are and what you do.• Only 10-15 seconds to start with…• Your name, what you do, what you offer.• You want them remember your name,

business or industry, product and location.• Know how others can help you. Know

what you are looking for.

Staying in Touch

• Follow up quickly (usually within 48 hours)Send a simple note, article or business lead. Whoever connects first becomes the power source of that relationship.

Golden Rule of Networking=

All things being equal, people will do business with and refer business to, those people they know, like & trust

Start identifying opportunities in the Design/Decoration industry.Check out networking groups and events relevant to your industry.• Sydney Indesign -

http://www.sydneyindesign.com.au/• DesignEx Melbourne/ Sydney http

://www.designex.info/• Grand Designs Live

http://www.granddesignslive.com.au/• Design Institute of Australia http://www.dia.org.au/• Inhouse Group 3 http://www.alainhchazelles.com.au

/• Sydney Design

http://www.sydneydesign.com.au/2013/event-types/events/

• Alumni events by Sydney Design School• Life Instyle http://www.lifeinstyle.com.au/• Sydney Home Show

http://www.sydneyhomeshow.com.au/• Visit showrooms, pop up shops, trade shows and

more.

Develop a Network Plan

Visual social media is great for portfolios.• Pinterest boards• Instagram• Linked In provides

portfolio areas

Social Media provides great networking tools.

Most career recruiters check out your Linked In profile, keep it up to date!

Happy Networking• Get out• Get Known and get Connected!

Thank you for listening!Sue HeinsInspiring Womenwww.inspiringwomen.org.au