When hunting for a public interest job (summer or permanent), networking is an invaluable career-building tool.  As we’ve noted before, networking is not schmoozing.  Rather, it is the process of developing relationships with individuals and organizations who operate in the professional arena that you wish to join (or advance within).   We’re thrilled to present this guest post –  10 Tips for Networking Made Easy! – by Michael Bergmann, executive director of the Chicago-based Public Interest Law Initiative (PILI).

Michael joined PILI in 2006 as Pro Bono Initiative Director and more recently served as PILI’s Director of Programs prior to being named Executive Director on December 1, 2010.  Prior to joining PILI in 2006, Michael served as the Guardian Ad Litem Program Director for Chicago Volunteer Legal Services.  An active member of the American Bar Association, he is Chair-Elect of the ABA Young Lawyers Division and Secretary of the Lawyers Conference of the Judicial Division.   

10 Tips for Networking Made Easy

1. It’s always better to give than receive!  Networking isn’t about getting a job or business development; it’s about developing relationships and making connections.  Networking is about meeting others to learn about what their needs are, how you can help and what connections you can make.  If you approach it from this angle, you’ll be successful and receive your rewards.  If not, you’ll be labeled a schmoozer, ‘pol’ or worse.
2. RSVP when asked, and do what you said!  They wouldn’t ask if they didn’t care.  If a host is asking for responses, be sure to let them know if you’re coming and if you say you are, be there.
3. Turn your cell phone/PDA/pager off!  I know it’s hard, but try it.  Hiding in a corner checking messages or on a call doesn’t go unnoticed.   And, answering the phone or checking e-mail while you’re talking, well, need I say more?
4. Listen more than you talk!  This is critical to a good networking session.  Take the time to learn about the person.  But, no one wants to carry the weight of the whole conversation, so talk responsibly.
5. Learn the person’s name and use it!  This is important during the conversation and for afterwards.  Doing so will show your sincerity and interest in the person and will help you remember their name later.
6. Know who you are and what you are!  Be able to explain who you are and to tell a little about yourself.  No one wants to hear the highlights of you resume or feel like their being sold something.  Explain who you are and what you do in a short but thorough way and relate to what you’ve learned about them.
7. Put your best face forward!  If you’re that mad/sad/angry/sick, don’t go.  No one wants to hear your whining or sob story when they first meet you and your less than sunny disposition will impede your ability to make connections.
8. Always have business cards on you!  Nothing kills a great networking opportunity like not having a way to connect again in the future.  And, be sure the one you give it is really yours!  You might jot down some important facts about the person or your conversation on the back of the card for later use.
9. Don’t shoulder surf!  You may think no one notices, but they do.  When talking with someone be sure to give them your full attention.  If you’re not enjoying the conversation, then politely move on.
10. Follow up with the contacts you make!  Whenever possible, you should follow-up within a week of meeting a new contact.  Include some highlights from your discussion to help them remember you.  And, if they follow-up with you first, be sure to respond.