Networking… The what, the why, and the how? By: Steven Burda ● April 25, 2009

Today’s Agenda Introduction… Networking: what & why? How: Types & Uses of Networking? Do’ s & Don’t s of Networking! YOU can do it! Examples of effective use via Web 2.0 Questions, Comments, Stories?

Introduction: Who am I? Temple University, FSBM, BBA St. Joseph’s University, MBA Villanova University, Post-MBA Currently: The Boeing Company Past: Lockheed Martin, SunGard Data Systems, CIGNA, SalomonSmithBarney

Why am I here speaking? Worked in many departments, many people, made successful business deals/leads. “Been there, done that” – known as “Go-to guy” Communicative; “Networking Expert” Connector – “Career Coach” – My hobby! Started my own non-profit consulting company on my “free time” - Burda Consulting Co.

Basics: What is Networking? Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines networking... – the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions. – the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business.

Basics: Why Network? Process of establishing mutually beneficial relationships. Give and take mentality. Exchange of information, ideas, and support. Bottom line, it will lead to: - new opportunities, increased revenue - learning & development, jobs/leads! - build trust, friendships, “Sky’s the Limit!”

Basics: How to Network? 2 types, many approaches. Traditional Networking (everyday!): - face-to-face, BNI, Social Events/Clubs, Job Fairs. - Volunteering, Dinners, Sport Events, “Golf Outing,” etc!!! Virtual Networking: 21 st century - Social media, Web 2.0, online collaboration, - sites like Linkedin, Skype, Plaxo, Ecademy (Business) - sites like Facebook, Twitter, Blogger (both B&P!!!)

Easy in theory… … Harder in practice ? ( yet everyone’s doing it! )

Network successfully by… Reach out; Participate; Stay connected. Meet, talk, listen = Quality vs. Quantity Communicate, be concise. Be your best = 1 st impression matter! Offer help, advise, support. Take time, Give first… rewards will come! “Dig your well before you’re thirsty.” Quote by Harvey Mackay:

( Virtual ) Networking DO s… Do connect with “real world” friends, colleagues. Do keep your profile current/updated. Meet new & exciting people = be an opportunist! Be likable, friendly & approachable. Have confidence, but not arrogance. Be an optimist; not a pessimist. Follow-up, introduce others, facilitate discussions. Brand yourself – get known, be heard & recognized! Personalize your requests & approaches! Do have fun doing it!!

( Virtual ) Networking DON’Ts … Don’t presume anything while meeting new people. Don’t assume people have to help/owe you. Don’t be a salesman, even if you are! Don’t think “ME!” but “them!” Don’t ramble or go-off track. Don’t spam/bother your network! Don’t abuse your network; Don’t ignore others! Don’t give up! Don’t do it because you have to!

YOU can do it too! You can be a successful networker! It’s called networking because it takes work: time, effort & practice! Establish online presence, participate in discussions, earn expertise! Network, Network, Network. Mentor & be mentored; Read books: ● "Never Eat Alone" ● "A Friend in Every City" ● "The Power of Nice" ● "The Virtual Handshake" ● "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" ●

Utilize sites like Linkedin for… - Job & Market Research - Control Information, Prepare for Interviews - Company Research/Intelligence - Re-Connect - Personal Brand, Establish Credibility - Connections & Collaborations - Resources for projects/articles - Questions & Answers: Participate! - Give & Get References: Promote Others - Improve Google Ranking; Stand out! - Become a Bigger Business/Get Leads - Passive (“Real-Time”) Digital Resume Sometimes it’s not just what you know, but WHO you know & who knows YOU.

Questions, Comments, Stories? I can always be reached at: