Networking Skills: How to Start Conversations at Expos and Conferences

Getting Started with Networking Skills Expos, trade shows and conferences are great opportunities to build new connections in your industry. But what’s the best way to start conversations with people at these events? Here are some simple strategies to get things moving. I also discussed networking skills and a variety of tactics with Julie during … Read more

No More Wallflowers – How to Master Group Conversations (Videos)

I gave a presentation recently here in New York about group conversations. We discussed: The basics of group dynamics. Understanding the types of group situations there are, dynamic vs rigid group situations, and how to take pressure off of yourself when approaching a new group. How to contribute and engage with a group even if … Read more

Most Jobs are Never Advertised, and Here’s Why That’s a Good Thing

We’ve known for years that the vast majority of job openings are never advertised. The number of jobs filled through networking alone is probably 70-80% or more. At first this seems like a huge problem for a typical job seeker. Whatever you see on a job site is a very limited fraction of the total … Read more

Good Networking Feels Like Making New Friends

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that good networking feels a lot like meeting new friends. Oftentimes we associate “networking” with a very business-focused, “formal” kind of vibe. But that’s just one, very specific type of networking. People definitely want to hire or do business with someone who is professional. But they also want someone … Read more

Here are the Top 7 Questions People Ask at Networking Events

I just hosted another successful networking event tonight here in NYC with some amazing partners and collaborators. One thing I have noticed is that in networking situations, human beings tend to ask the exact same questions over and over. While this makes things somewhat boring and predictable, it’s understandable. People are often uncertain how to engage … Read more