How to mingle in a crowd to get job leads.

When job hunting treat every gathering/function that you attend as a source of potential employers.

The objective when you go is to network, which essentially means, make an effort to meet and become known by as many prospective employers as possible. You want those first networking encounters to be positive and to reflect you in the most advantageous light so that when you offer them your card/number they call you FIRST when a suitable vacancy becomes available. Impress them a lot and they may create a post just for you!

So how do you approach people you have never met before?

Lack of confidence is the biggest hindrance to networking. But if you prepare and become confident that you have prepared well then your confidence will rise and the more experience you get at networking then better you will become. The saying you may have to kiss a hundred ugly toads before you find your prince equally applies to networking. You may have to do a lot of networking before you land that dream job offer, but land it you will with time and effort.

So how do you network?

Heres how:

• Walk the talk
• Make sure that you are knowledgeable about the job area that you want to get into.
• The Internet is a vast resource of information; make Google your best friend!

Dress to impress

If you are hoping to get job leads for a professional firm you need to present yourself professionally.

Ladies this means classy and smart, save your cleavage for nights out with the girls. Keep make-up subtle not too colourful. Skirts a modest length. Guys, if a tie and shirt is too formal for the occasion then a shirt with smart jeans. No tears and designer stains! Make sure the trouser length is correct for you and the waist is worn at your waist and not drooping round your hips. Hands stay out of pockets and for both ladies and gents no gum!

Now you are dressed to impress and you can walk the talk, you arrive at destination x.

No smoking

Many people these days dislike smoking, so if you are a smoker, do not alienate potential employers by smoking at this function.

Find out whos who

Usually you will have been invited to this function by the host and they will be present. Ask them for a low down on who is who when you arrive. Tell them you are hoping to meet people with an interest in the field of work you want to break into

Introduce yourself

When they give you a whos who if anyone stands out as being a good networking candidate, ask the host for an introduction. If this is not an option, do not be afraid to approach people who may be alone or making their way alone to the buffet/bar/display etc. Do not interrupt a private conversation and do not approach people who look frustrated, angry or upset, as they will associate these negative feelings with you.

Handshake

Shake hands only if the host is formally introducing you. If you are approaching them on your own, shake hands when you depart from them saying it was a pleasure to meet you as you do so.

Ensure the handshake is firm but not tight, do not squeeze and make sure your palm is not sweaty before offering it. Take this matter into hand (literally) before the shake situation arises!

Initiating dialogue

Whether you are being introduced or making the introduction yourself, start the conversation making it clear you are interested in them rather than yourself. Introduce yourself informally, Hi I am your name, I hear you have an interest in.. then let them do the talking. People love nothing better than to talk about themselves and things they are expert in. The more you listen the more they will consider you a great talker!

Seal the deal

Make sure you memorise their name and any other personal details they tell you. Your ability to recall these on a next encounter will earn you huge points! Ask them a few personal questions (not intimate) such as do you have children etc. Try to find topics to discuss that you may share common ground i.e. kids/sports/hobbies/collection/music taste/food taste etc. Build a rapport. Dont forget to let them do all the talking about themselves.

This should make them relax sufficiently to start asking about you and to have a genuine interest when they do so. You can then tell them about your desire to break into the career you desire etc. As you are doing so offer them your card. State that it has been a pleasure talking with them and if they hear of any opportunities arising in your field of interest to give you a call. Smile and leave them with a friendly handshake as you move onto prospective employer number 2!

Circulate and remember, the person you are talking to may not be a prospective employer but if you make a good enough impression, they may recommend you to someone who is!