5 Tips for Successful Networking

With graduation only six months away, networking and preparing for interviews are essential activities. Branding yourself in a negative manner can be horrific and damaging to your career. It is always good to follow these five tips when meeting potential employers or connections!

1. Eye Contact, Eye Contact, Eye Contact

This is extremely important and cannot be stressed enough! Potential employers believe that eye contact signifies focus, comprehension, and engagement in what they are saying.

2. Dress Cute, Classy, and Professional

This is not the time to look sexy. Showing cleavage, barely covering your ? uh-hum ? assets, and leaving no room for the imagination is NOT appropriate. If you would wear an outfit to the bar there is a good chance you shouldn?t wear it to an interview.

3. Have a Firm, Strong Handshake

Handshakes are usually your first impression, so make sure it?s good! Women in particular are expected to be submissive, so having a strong handshake while maintaining good eye contact will be a pleasant surprise. Good handshakes are a great way to gain respect.

4. Good Posture

Having good posture helps indicate your interest and understanding of the interaction. ?Slouching and leaning backwards are signs of unimportance; your best bet is to stick with a straight posture and leaning slightly forward.

5. Speak Clearly

Speaking clearly is a great way to demonstrate your confidence and knowledge. Try not to mumble or hesitate. It is okay to take a moment to think before you answer–actually, it is recommended.