{"id":3028,"date":"2023-02-16T02:23:53","date_gmt":"2023-02-16T02:23:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rbc.com\/en\/future-launch\/?p=3028"},"modified":"2023-03-22T21:14:35","modified_gmt":"2023-03-22T21:14:35","slug":"how-to-effectively-make-connections-and-build-your-network","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rbc.com\/en\/future-launch\/resource-type\/advice-tips\/how-to-effectively-make-connections-and-build-your-network","title":{"rendered":"How to Effectively Make Connections and Build Your Network","raw":"How to Effectively Make Connections and Build Your Network"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Career Support<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

Job Preparation<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

Networking<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\n

How to Effectively Make Connections and Build Your Network<\/h1><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Networking can be done in many different ways, through friends and family, at formal or informal events or by making connections on your own, like having coffee and a conversation with an acquaintance or colleague. Below are some great tips on how to build a network that will set you up for success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before you go too far ahead in building your network, remember the basics: always smile, develop a strong handshake and hold yourself with confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\t\n\t

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Move beyond social media<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Social media sites like LinkedIn offer a great opportunity to gather information, make initial connections and manage your network, but you need to make sure that your connections exist outside these online platforms. The first step is to put down your phone and get out there.<\/p>\n\n\n\t\n\t

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Make a good first impression<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Reaching out to someone to make a connection can be a little intimidating. When possible, aim for an introduction \u2013 get someone in your network who knows the person you want to connect with to introduce you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When you reach out, either in person or by email, make sure you share a little bit about yourself and highlight ways you might be helpful to the individual. It should feel like a two-way street.<\/p>\n\n\n\t\n\t

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Always prepare<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you\u2019re meeting face to face with an individual or attending an event, you want to invest some time preparing. Research the individual(s) you\u2019re connecting with using LinkedIn or your existing network to learn more about the their position(s), work background(s) and accomplishments. Consider what you\u2019d like to find out more about. Be sure you\u2019re ready to tell your story, and prepare a few questions in advance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some questions to get you started:<\/p>\n\n\n\n