I am a senior manager in a mid-sized technology company and recently was caught up in a lay off. I never thought that this could happen to me and I'm still a little numb. The thought of looking for a job, and particularly getting involved in networking is quite anxiety provoking. There is a networking event, sponsored by a professional association, coming up in a few weeks that I would like to attend. My problem is that I haven't done anything like this in years and would welcome your advice on how to maximize this and other networking events.

I'm sorry to hear about you employment situation, but even the most talented of people find themselves impacted by lay offs. There are a number of elements that should be part of your job search. It would help to first go through a self-assessment process so that you can fine-tune what type of position would be best for you. I'm assuming you have an outplacement package that will include self-assessment exercises and possibly some testing.

There are many excellent books written on making the most of networking events. However, I will be happy to give you several tips that have worked well for others in your situation.

• Adopt a "Give Before you Get" Philosophy

  Much of the anxiety surrounding attendance at these events is based on fear of appearing needy and asking for help. Adopting an attitude of first helping the people you meet will go a long way towards developing quality relationships. Let's face it, no one is going to open up his or her Rolodex to someone they don't know and trust. You have to help people get to know you before any help of substance comes your way. Look for opportunities to introduce the people you meet to others in your network. Recommend other professional groups to those looking to find specialized groups. Sometimes something as simple as recommending a book in a person's area of interest can go a long way towards building a relationship. You will be amazed how this philosophy will help you become more relaxed and make the most of networking events.

• Be Consistent in Attending Association Meetings

  All too often I hear people say, "I went to one of that association's meetings and didn't get any leads." Once you determine that a group or association is a good fit for you, make a commitment to attend at least six consecutive meetings. Each meeting will become easier and more productive than the one you previously attended.

• Arrive Early and Stay Late

  This tip comes from Tony Cavallaro, President of JACA Architects in Weymouth, MA. Tony coaches the architects in his firm to show up early for networking events and association meetings. This is a great time to have quality conversations with people before the actual event begins. The key players in the associations (board members and speakers) generally arrive early and you

  Many times, especially after a long day, there is an inclination to leave meetings as soon as the formal program is concluded. Tony knows that there are significant opportunities for those people who stay and connect at a more leisurely pace with other attendees. This is an excellent time to reconnect with people you met during the networking part of the meeting.

Good luck with your networking. Be persistent and let me know if you have any additional questions.

Copyright , Mark J. Campbell. All rights reserved.
Permission to reprint this article is granted, provided you let me know where it is being printed, the copyright is not removed, and the following text accompanies each article:

"Mark Campbell partners with organizations for leadership development. For a complimentary subscription to his newsletter, "Management Challenges," go to www.mjcampbellassoc.com."

TOP OF PAGE