Top tips for effective networking

  • Network with a purpose – simply meeting people is not enough; you have to follow up on the connections you make.
  • Make sure you keep your promises – this will gain you a reputation as someone who is reliable and helpful.
  • Decide at the outset what your standards of behaviour will be – you also need to be clear what you're prepared to do for other people, and what's outside your standards.
  • Remember the importance of first impressions – think about how your appearance and personal manner will seem to others.
  • Don't be apologetic about asking for favours – networking is about mutual benefit.
  • If you network online, be clear about the boundaries between the personal and professional. Keep your online presence up to date.
  • If you network at events, go prepared – check the guest list beforehand, and plan who you will speak to and what you will talk to them about.
  • Don't cling to your colleagues at events – this will make it difficult to meet new people. Arrange to separate shortly after arrival and meet up again afterwards.
  • Research professional groups and networks to join – be clear about what you want to get out of membership.
  • Keep an up-to-date database of contacts. Make sure you keep in touch – even if it's just online or via a Christmas card.