Q: What's the best way to approach someone at an industry event for career purposes?
Block: Certainly an introduction by a third party is preferable. Or perhaps you can be that third party and introduce an associate to someone you know. Getting yourself "known" really comes down to your confidence level. Certainly talking to the speaker post presentation is one way. Or perhaps the event organizers are looking for volunteers.
Q: What's the worst thing you can do while networking at such an event?
Block: Ask for a job. This puts people off.
Q: Experts say IT people should have a short 'elevator' speech about themselves. What's the best way to get this done and easy to say/share during networking.
Block: My clients use a tagline. Typically, when you meet someone, you are asked "What do you do?" Most people respond with a "title." I advise clients to say in one sentence what they do. For example my tagline is "I help professionals transform their strengths, talents and values into revenue." If the person wants to know more, then you can give them the elevator speech. The elevator speech is used to give a short summary of your skills and accomplishments.
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Q: How important is body language during such career networking -- what shouldn't you do or what should you do?
Block:
The Do's:
- Good eye to eye contact but don't stare.
- Full firm handshake (palm to palm).
- Listen and ask questions about what they are saying. Be fully present.
- If it's going well, then ask for their card.
- Talk about your interests.
- Be gracious.
The Don'ts:
- Don't "cup your hand" when shaking hands.
- Don't ask if they know of any job openings.
- Don't tell jokes.
- Don't go into a scripted interview mode.
Q: Many people are introverted. What are some ways or exercises to get used to introducing yourself before an actual networking opportunity presents itself?
Block: Pick an event, conference topic and seminar that you are really interested. Your excitement and interest in a common topic can be enough to get things going. You might ask as an opener: "What have you heard about the speaker? This topic is really interesting." They will respond in kind with their own take on the topic and you build yourself a conversation from that point. Build the strategic relationships first, the jobs will follow.
Q: How valuable is networking at IT events? How can you determine which is a good networking opportunity and which isn't?
Block: Networking is a way of life and used 24/7. Study events carefully before you go. If this event is predominantly job seekers (and you are one) and very few hiring organizations, then I suggest that you don't go. If however, your target companies and decision makers are all going to be there, then by all means. Whatever the event is, it's about getting out from behind your computer and meeting people. The network you build today is part of your job security tomorrow.
Randy Block is a certified career coach. Before starting his own business, he served as VP of a search firm and has held senior positions with small high-tech firms. He holds a Certified Career Management Coach and a Professional Certified Retirement Coach certificate. He can be reached at: randy@randyblock.com.
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