BEST PRACTICES IN NETWORKING 

The best networkers:

    * Get and stay organized. They capture all pertinent information about 
      their contacts and use a system that will work long after the job search.
    * Are not hesitant to tell people they´re conducting a job search.
    * Are introduced by others to new contacts whenever possible.
    * Can quickly and clearly present themselves and what they´re looking for; 
      know how to handle phone objections/gatekeepers; know when to leave 
      voicemails or to use e-mail; go back to their referral source if not 
      getting through.
    * Don´t say "I´m wide open and can meet anytime" when scheduling a 
      networking meeting. They appear busy and productive.
    * Meet in the contact´s office whenever possible. Good things happen there.
    * Make every effort to give as much as they receive (contacts, ideas, 
      articles, breaking news, ect.), appreciating that networking is a two-way 
      street.
    * Manage a tight networking meeting. They have an agenda, present themselves 
      effectively before asking too many questions, keep track of the promised 
      time.
    * Use a target list of companies and key individuals as a tool in the 
      networking process.
    * Do their research. They ask intelligent, discerning questions, not 
      obvious ones.
    * Have a personal business card with all pertinent information.
    * Follow through on suggestions, names given by another. If they´re not 
      going to follow through, they let their contact know that.
    * Express their appreciation and keep contacts informed of progress and 
      steps taken.
    * Have a positive attitude and convey that they love their work.
    * Have a sense of adventure about the whole networking process.

Source: Eric Larmer, Senior Vice President/Keystone Associates
Best Practices in Networking