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So, if you're a networking novice where should you begin? It's important to be aware that you already
have a potential network at your fingertips, and it consists of people you have worked with or
currently work with. It is also likely to include professional contacts, which could be clients
or suppliers with which you have built up good working relationships. All you need to do is
apply a few basic rules.
Be selective
Go for reliable people with whom you are on good terms and who you feel totally comfortable with.
Get to know them well before including them in your inner circle. If you're in any doubt, don't
attempt to add them to your network of contacts.
Be ruthless
Networking is two-way traffic where you do someone a good turn and you expect something in return.
If there are any problems with a potential network contact be ruthless and cross him or her off the
list. You need to feel confident about the person so that if you had to put in a good word about them
to a potential employer, you could speak confidently in their favour, or be happy to provide them business
with your best client.
Be economical
Don't attempt to juggle a huge network of contacts which would be difficult to maintain. You need to
keep in control and networking isn't possible with too many people on the list.
More on networking.
More on surviving the job hunt. | 