Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Define a clear, authentic purpose for their networking efforts.
• Identify and prioritize high-value professional contacts (mentors, sponsors, peers).
• Develop and deliver a concise, compelling self-introduction.
• Master the art of the informational interview for intelligence gathering and relationship building.
• Implement effective strategies for following up and nurturing connections over time.
• Leverage professional social media platforms (e.g., LinkedIn) strategically.
• Navigate networking events and conferences with confidence and intention.
• Develop a system for tracking, maintaining, and giving back to their network.

• Job seekers and career changers.
• Professionals seeking increased internal or external visibility.
• Sales, marketing, and business development employees.
• Anyone who struggles with the perceived "awkwardness" of networking.
• Leaders looking to expand their professional influence and reach.

• Group workshop on developing a compelling 30-second introduction.
• Role-playing a networking scenario at a mock conference reception.
• Individual exercise in crafting a personalized informational interview request email.
• Group critique of LinkedIn profile optimization efforts.
• Case study on a successful networking strategy that led to a major career pivot.
• Practice giving and receiving genuine professional referrals.

Unit 1: The Foundations of Authentic Networking

• Shifting from Transactional to Relational
  • Defining a strategic network and its three key components (operational, personal, strategic).
  • The philosophy of "give first" and mutual benefit in networking.
  • Overcoming the psychological barriers and anxiety associated with networking.
  • Identifying your personal value proposition and unique selling points.
  • Setting clear, measurable goals for networking activities.

Unit 2: Building Blocks of the Conversation

• Mastering Introductions and Active Listening
  • Developing a powerful, engaging, and brief self-introduction (30-second pitch).
  • Techniques for breaking the ice and initiating conversations with strangers.
  • The importance of asking genuine, open-ended questions.
  • Mastering active listening and remembering key details.
  • Strategies for gracefully ending a conversation and moving on.

Unit 3: Strategic Outreach and Follow-Up

• Cultivating High-Value Connections
  • Identifying target individuals (sponsors, mentors, peers) for outreach.
  • Crafting personalized, high-impact cold emails and connection requests.
  • The power and structure of the **informational interview** (the "ask").
  • Developing a systematic 24-hour follow-up protocol.
  • Strategies for adding value to the connection over time (e.g., sharing articles).

Unit 4: Leveraging Digital and Event Networking

• Online Presence and In-Person Confidence
  • Optimizing LinkedIn for network growth and professional credibility.
  • Strategies for researching attendees and planning outreach before an event.
  • Navigating conferences and large events with a strategic plan.
  • The ethics of digital networking and maintaining professional boundaries.
  • Techniques for managing the volume of contacts effectively.

Unit 5: Sustaining and Giving Back to the Network

• Long-Term Relationship Management
  • Creating a system for tracking and regularly engaging with key contacts.
  • The power of the "check-in" and how to do it authentically.
  • Strategies for introducing two people who could benefit from knowing each other.
  • Identifying opportunities to advocate for or sponsor contacts.
  • Conducting a periodic audit of your network's diversity and strength.