HBR Guide to Getting a Job

CONVERSATION STARTER

6 Networking Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Networking is one of the most effective ways to find a job, but most people dread it. Here's how to do it well—and enjoy it.

by Gill Corkindale

Executive coach, former management editor of the Financial Times, and author of the blog, “Letter from London.”

Find more content on managing yourself at blogs.hbr.org/cs

QUICK READ

How can you network effectively?

• Make a list of contacts, both personal and professional.
• Carefully prepare your introductory e-mail or phone call: Be clear and brief about your purpose.
• Sell yourself with crisp, concrete examples of your past accomplishments.
• Work the room: Talk with lots of people, ask about their jobs, give your 30-second elevator pitch. ...