When was the last time you made an effort to network? Many people do not make this a priority because it can be awkward and sometimes feel forced. However, networking is a vital part of career advancement. Allen School of Health Sciences would like to share a few tips from the
Huffington Post, so our Medical Assistants and Nursing Assistants can be prepared the next time they encounter a networking opportunity.
- Be Intentional – Do not just network to collect business cards. Instead, network with intention, so you can accomplish the goal of creating new contacts within your area of interest.
- Elevator Pitch– This pitch should be 20 to 30 seconds and have your pitch perfected before the networking event.
- Speak up – Sometimes when networking we are not direct about our career goals; however, this is the time to be direct about what you are looking to accomplish. You never know if that is the perfect person to help get you where you want to be in your career.
- Follow up – If you exchanged contact information with someone at a networking event and enjoyed the conversation then follow up with them via email. If you offered to assist them or wanted to learn more about something discussed then addresses that in the email.
These tips will become second nature with time. Again, Medical Assistant and Nursing Assistant students make sure to make an extra effort to network. Allen School students what are some of your networking best practices? Please, share and incorporate these tips.
