six quick networking tips with the muse founder, kathryn minshew
TRANSCRIPT
Phoenix Career Corner™
Six quick networking tips with The Muse founder, Kathryn Minshew
About Kathryn MinshewKathryn Minshew is founder and CEO of The Muse, a career website that helps people figure out what they want to do with their lives and how to get there. She was named to Forbes’ “30 under 30” in Media, as well as Inc.’s “15 Women to Watch in Tech.” Minshew credits networking for much of her success, and she has some great tips on the topic.
Tip 1: Reframe it. Networking is just a formal word for meeting new people.
Tip 2: Cast a wide net for events.Look for events through alumni groups, professional associations and online resources. If you can’t find an event you like, invite three friends to a café. Ask them each to invite three friends. Soon you’ll have your own event.
Tip 3: Acknowledge inherent awkwardness.If you don’t know how to start a conversation once you get to an event, it’s OK to say, “Hi, I don’t know anyone here. Mind if I say hello?” It’s refreshing, and people appreciate it.
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Tip 4: Dust off your elevator pitch.In 30 seconds or less, tell your conversation partner your name, job description and why you love it. This gives him or her something to latch onto.
Who? What? Why?
Tip 5: Share your goals.Don’t be afraid to tell people where you’d like your career to go. And be as specific as possible. You’ll be surprised how many people want to help when they know what you’re looking for.
Tip 6: Follow up within 24 hours.If you meet someone who can advance your career search, take that person’s information and shoot him or her a friendly email within a day. Tie up any loose ends too.
Good luck.
