XYZ Company 87 Delaware Road Hatfield, CA 08065 (909) 555-5555

george.gillhooley@email.com Date Dear Mr. Gilhooley, I am writing to apply for the programmer position advertised in the Times Union. As requested, I am enclosing a completed job application, my certification, my resume and three references. The opportunity presented in this listing is very interesting, and I believe that my strong technical experience and education will make me a very competitive candidate for this position. The key strengths that I possess for success in this position include: I have successfully designed, developed, and supported live use applications I strive for continued excellence I provide exceptional contributions to customer service for all customers With a BS degree in Computer Programming, I have a full understanding of the full life cycle of a software development project. I also have experience in learning and excelling at new technologies as needed.

Please see my resume for additional information on my experience. I can be reached anytime via email at george.gillhooley@email.com or my cell phone, 909-555-5555. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this employment opportunity. Sincerely,
FirstName LastName __________

GRADUATE APPLICATION ADVICE

Cover Letter Tips Application Tips Types of Applications

The job application process for graduates can be very daunting, but it doesnt have to be. Job applications are an important part of a graduates life once university is finished as they are necessary to achieve the main goal of a university education - obtaining a job. People are not taught how to undertake a job search, it is a life skill that once you dedicate some time and effort into perfecting, will be invaluable to you for the rest of your career and working life. There are many different ways for a graduate to secure a job. Companies may use several recruiting methods in their search for the right applicant: direct recruiting via their company website, recruiting via a recruitment consultancy or recruitment agency, advertising on online jobboards or having a stand at a graduate recruitment fair. The more applications you make, the higher your chances are of getting an interview so below is some useful advice to get you started.

Cover Letter Tips

To introduce and set the tone for your application, a cover letter should always be sent with a CV. The cover letter is your way to introduce yourself to a potential employer and to highlight your experience and skills relevant to the job specification. This is your chance to demonstrate to an employer why they should consider hiring you.

What you want the employer to know

You have excellent written communication skills. You are of good character and have dedication. That they want to talk to you!

Areas you need to cover

Start off by directing your letter to the individual who was specified in the job advert the letter should always be addressed to a named person.

Introduce yourself say who you are. Mention the job youre applying for, state any reference number and where you saw the advertisement. Explain why you are right for the position including briefly stating your skills, education and work experience. Explain why you want to work for their company and why you would be right for the position itself let them know you have done your research on the company. Thank them for considering your application, tell them youre looking forward to hearing from them and let them know youre available for an interview.

Rules of the cover letter

Be positive - using positive language will help you to come across as approachable and confident. Double-check your spacing, grammar and spelling. Make sure all names and titles are correctly spelled. Explain any personal situations or any inconsistencies in your application. Convey how you would be of benefit to the company rather than focusing on how the company could benefit you. Keep your letter to one page this will encourage the employer to read and pay full attention to the entire letter. Make sure the cover letter matches your CV with regards to font, spacing, style, paper etc.

Remember a cover letter is particularly useful to highlight any work placements, internships or a gap year - this will make you stand out from the other graduates applying for the same position. This information should also be on you CV but in much greater detail.

Sample cover letter

This is a sample cover letter to give you an idea on how to write your own. Dear Re: (insert job title, reference number) In response to the advertised position on (insert where you saw advert) on (insert date), please consider my CV in your search for a (insert job title). This is an ideal job for me given my interest for ______, my related experience and qualifications. (Job area interest) has always been an interest to me, which is why I chose to (insert related work experience or relevant qualification). I obtained a (insert grade) in ______ in (insert year) and have been (insert what you have been doing since then if relevant). I am a confident user of (insert appropriate name of software, e.g. Word) and have worked extensively with (insert another package that you have worked with or skill that is required for the position you are applying). As you can see from my CV, I've taken the opportunity to gain (insert relevant qualification or skill), which has helped me in my previous (work experience) as a ______. I'm responsible for (insert responsibility that you would like to highlight for the position and expand on it). I've also (insert another skill/requirement that you have done in the past that is required in the position you are applying for). I am available for an interview at your convenience and look forward to hearing from you. Yours sincerely,

Your Name back to top

Application Tips
Before you begin The application form Personal statement and competency questions Sample of a personal statement

Companies use the application process as a tool to sift through candidates to streamline the list of people to interview. Before beginning an application, make sure that you research the company as this will enable you to make intelligent and more considered responses to each of the questions on the application form. Look at the competitors in their industry find out about the differences between the company you're applying to and their competition as it is always helpful to know what sets businesses apart from one another. When you are sure that you have done as much research as you can do on the company, you are ready to look at the application form. If you dont make a great application, you are unlikely to get shortlisted for an interview. Pay attention to detail. Read and follow the instructions on the application form. Organise yourself - gather all the information youll need in advance that is relevant to the application. Take your time to make it perfect (or as perfect as it can be).

Before you begin

To better organise yourself make a list of the companies that youre applying to including a list of the contacts at each company. It is important to do this so you know what jobs you have applied for and when. This will enable you to easily keep track of the applications you have made. Make sure you read each question thoroughly on the application form. Once you have done that, reread them! People often do not answer a question properly because they have misinterpreted what is being asked. Once you have written your answer, reread the question and your answer to ensure your response is fluent and answers the question fully. Some graduates rush through applications without giving them their full dedication and concentration. An application is one way to make a first impression on a potential employer so do take it seriously

The application form

If you have a paper application form, make a copy of it so you can fill that in first and transfer the information to the hard copy once you are satisfied with your answers. If the application is online, copy down the questions first and answer them offline before inputting your answers to the online form. Make sure you understand your skills and how they match the position that you're applying for. Keep a copy of all your applications so if you are shortlisted, you can refer back to that specific application. Avoid the temptation to copy an answer from one application form to another - although the questions may seem similar, it is important to tailor your response to each individual company that youre applying to.

At the end of most applications there will be a section for references, data protection, diversity and equal opportunities. Be sure you get permission from your referees before listing them and choose people who will give you a good reference!

Personal statements and competency questions

Sometimes you will be asked to write a personal statement to support your application. If employers dont use a personal statement in their application process they may use competency questions. Personal statements and competency questions are purposely used to find out how well you, your skills and your experience match the person specification of the role youre applying to. They want applicants to show how they handled an experience or used a skill in a situational context as that enables them to see how the applicants manage themselves. They will most likely be testing your communication, problem solving, organisational and decision making skills. You could mention events from university whether they are academic or activity related. Make sure you answer the question(s) being asked. Read what you have written out loud to ensure that what you have put together is coherent and concise. Back up each skill that you mention by giving examples - you can summarise the situation or experience that you are referring to. You should emphasise that you are willing to learn new skills. The employer is looking for clear, coherent and relevant information to support your applications so make sure you directly relate your experience and skills in the personal statement or in your answers to the competency questions to the job specification.

The main difference between competency questions and personal statements is the length of the answer. A personal statement usually requires a short essay-type response whereas competency questions would normally be answered with shorter answers. If there is a personal statement in an application form there is usually only one question and if there are competency questions there are usually up to five. These questions can be time consuming however it does help to highlight skills beyond what is written on your CV so take your time answering them.

Sample personal statement and competency questions

Tell us about a talent, experience, contribution or personal quality that you will bring to this company. Tell us about a time when you have had to use influencing skills. What are your reasons for applying for this position? What are your career goals? What personal characteristics do you have that would make you successful in this profession? Have you had to overcome any unusual obstacles or hardships in your life?

How to answer competency questions or write a personal statement

Be positive show how you learned something useful, whether it be a skill or an outcome Focus on what you did and the skills and methods you used. Make sure you fully explain the situation to give your reader context this can be tricky as you do not want to be long winded.

Sample personal statement

This is a sample Personal Statement to give you an idea of how to write your own. When writing a personal statement you are going to be using a standard essay format in response to a question - below is a simple way to structure your answer.
Introduction

This is where you introduce yourself and tell the employer your reasons for pursuing the open graduate position. It is important to engage them in the statement as the employers will be reading many applications and you have to give them a good impression of your writing, thinking and communication abilities.
Body of the answer

Answer the Personal Statement Question Think about and collect experiences from university and previous work experience that has served as groundwork that would make you eligible for this position. Describe here how your interest, knowledge, personal qualities and university qualifications would help you compete against other applicants for this particular position. This is where you want to provide examples focus on classes you took and specific projects you did, you can explain research you have done and you will be able to mention your work placement experience. Focus on your determination to achieve your goals, initiative and ability in developing ideas and capacity for working through problems independently. Make sure you discuss your knowledge and accomplishments in your degree your qualifications and how they relate to what you intend to do in your position particular learning experiences that demonstrate your motivation and inspiration for continued learning other relevant experience such as internships, community activities, jobs, volunteer experience etc. Let them know you have initiative, leadership skills, confidence, ability to take responsibility, organisational skills, how you cope with new experiences, interpersonal skills, what challenges you have faced, specific achievements, languages, special IT skills etc. Elaborate on how you aim to combine your knowledge and experience from university to achieve your career goals. You can also state other abilities you have learned at school and from work experience (e.g. responsibility, teamwork) Leave them thinking about your future with them, your ambitions and personal expectations.
Conclusion

Leave the employer with a strong sense that you are qualified for the position and that you will be successful in the position youre applying for. back to top

Types of Applications
Online applications

An online application is the most common way to apply for IT graduate recruitment schemes. The majority of companies use their own website to advertise jobs and to handle applications from graduate jobseekers. Graduate career information is usually highlighted in a dedicated career section on the website, which is a fantastic way to begin gathering information for the application process. Look through the website first and print off the application before beginning it. Have your information (i.e. contact information, education and employment background) organised so you are well prepared.
Email applications

Another popular method employers use are email applications. This usually entails putting your cover letter as the body of the email and attaching your CV. To guarantee you are taken seriously, make sure your email address is appropriate and professional (i.e. sexyitgirl@home.co.uk is not an appropriate email address).

Check your email for errors including spelling and grammar. Put the title of the position youre applying for in the subject line. Send a test email to yourself first to test and proof it. Blind copy yourself in so you have a copy of what you have sent.

Paper applications

This method was once the most popular way to apply for graduate positions and sometimes paper applications are still used. If you are asked to use this method make sure you take a copy of the application to practise on. Write clearly and neatly using blue or black ink. Double check that you have signed and dated your application. Photocopy the completed application form so you have a record of what youve sent to that employer. Use registered mail to send the application.

GRADUATE INTERVIEW ADVICE

Interview Advice Types of Interviews Commonly Asked Questions

Interviews are intimidating for any jobseeker but especially for graduates who do not have a lot of experience in the professional working environment. However if you have been invited to an interview, there is a reason for it. Now is your chance to show the potential employer what you can offer! Your cover letter and CV or application form has impressed the company and now they want to learn a bit more about you. Every interview you attend will be different and you will gain experience from them all so, it is important to go to every interview youre offered in order to practise.

Interview Advice

What is the point of the interview? Interview preparation Interview dos Interview donts Interview appearance At the interview After the interview Sample follow up e-mail

What is the Point of an Interview?

The point of an interview is to see if your skills, experience and personality match the requirements of the job. Most commonly interviewers will be looking at:

Your communications skills. How you present yourself. Your enthusiasm.

A company will have an idea of who you are from your application or CV but the interview allows them to see how you come across in person. The interview is also your chance to find out if the job is a good fit for you too ask yourself if this is a position that you really want.

Interview Preparation
Research the company find out about what they do, have they been in the news recently, do they have any new products etc. Review your answers for common interview questions (see commonly asked interview questions section below). Have three or four questions ready that you would like to ask the company. Take an extra copy of your CV and references with you. Make sure you know where you are going and plan how long it will take you to get there. Allow yourself 30 minutes extra time for unexpected delays. Think about your personal brand and how you want to come across you wont get a second chance to make a first impression. Reread your application form. You may need to go into detail about the information you have put down, so it is best to go over your answers in advance. Reread the job description so you feel at ease about the requirements of the position. Relax and to be calm - you have been chosen to come for an interview, so already there are things about you that the company is interested in. If you are unable to attend an interview let the company know as soon as possible - you must maintain a high degree of professionalism.

Interview Dos

Do Do Do Do Do

dress professionally ideally wear a suit. ask the interviewer to repeat the question if you dont understand. show interest in the company and position. ask questions - this shows enthusiasm and the ability to think on your feet. thank the interviewer for their time and ask what their timeline is for a decision.

Interview Donts

Dont Dont Dont Dont Dont Dont

be late. leave your mobile on. interrupt the interviewer when they are speaking. be negative. ramble on and on keep your answers succinct. go into great detail about money.

Interview Appearance
Even though as a graduate you may not have extensive work experience, it doesnt mean that you arent required to look professional. It is always better to overdress and impress, than to not be dressed suitably. Buy a suit you feel and look good in as feeling well groomed and dressed will boost your confidence and this will come across in the interview.

At the Interview
It is important for you to focus on how to present yourself so dress to impress - looking professional and well groomed gives an excellent first impression. Your body language also says a lot about you, so remember to: Make eye contact, have a firm handshake and, most of all, smile! Sit upright with your arms and legs unfolded to encourage you to sit still and poised. Speak calmly and confidently as communication is one of the key skills that employers look for - avoid speaking quickly or mumbling. Listen to the interviewer and the questions being asked make sure you understand the question so you can answer it accurately. Be aware of the length of your answers. Dont answer shortly with yess or nos and waffling on is unacceptable. Find a balance, be concise and back up each answer with a short and relevant example. Ask questions. Come up with suitable questions to show the interviewer that you have done research on the company and that you are enthusiastic about them and the role.

After the Interview

Continue to mind your manners as you leave the building. Reflect on your answers and analyse what was well communicated and how you would or could have answered any questions differently. If appropriate, drop the interviewer a thank you note. You do not need to go over the top, just a simple thanks for the interview, nice to meet you and look forward to hearing from you. Be careful with follow-up calls and emails. It is a positive thing to sound eager and interested, but not so positive to sound forceful and desperate.

Sample Follow up E-mail

This is a sample thank you letter to give you an idea of how to write your own letter. Dear (Name of Interviewer), Thank you for taking the time to discuss the (name of position) at (name of company) with me. After meeting with you and finding out more about (name of company), I am further convinced that my background and skills coincide well with your needs. I really appreciate that you took so much time to acquaint me with both the role and the company. I feel I could learn a great deal from you and would certainly enjoy working for (name of company) I am enthusiastic about the possibility of working with you at (name of company). The position sounds like an ideal match for my skills and experience. Please contact me at (phone number) if you have any further questions and I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Your name back to top

Types of Interviews
Face to Face Interview

This is the most common type of interview. This is when there is a one to one meeting involving the candidate and the interviewer.
Telephone Interview

A telephone interview is becoming increasingly popular among companies as a method to preliminary screen candidates. It is equally important to make a good impression during a phone interview as it is in a face to face interview.
Group Interview

A group interview usually has a presentation about the company followed by a question and answer session. The candidates take turns to answer questions and it is a chance for the company to meet the candidates and to observe their behaviour in a group situation.
Panel Interview

A panel interview is made up of two or more interviewers who take turns asking you questions. This measures how you interact with different people, especially your future bosses, work colleagues, or both. Acknowledge the entire panel when answering as this will show confidence and good communication skills.
Sequential Interview

This is usually when you meet with several interviewers one after another. When you meet with each individual interviewer they typically will focus on their own area of interest. During sequential interviews it is important to answer each interviewer as thoroughly as the previous one even if they ask very similar questions. back to top

Commonly Asked Interview Questions

Prepare well thought out responses to each of the following questions, as it will help you to organise your answers for any potential questions asked during your interview
About University

Why did you choose your university? Why did you decide to enter the field of technology? or What motivated you to study a technology degree? How do you feel your course has prepared you to enter the commercial world? Describe an achievement you have had at university.
About You

Tell me about yourself. How do you handle pressure? Would you rather work in a team or by yourself? What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses? Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult situation. How did you handle What motivates you? How do you motivate others? Where do you see yourself in five years time? What are your hobbies or personal interests?

it?

About the Company and the Job

Why should we offer you the job? What attracted you to this position? Why do you want to work for this company? What makes you think that you would be good in this role? How would you hope to develop in this role? Why are you leaving your current role? (if applicable)

About your Technical Experience

What IT systems have you worked with? Which technologies have you used that would be particularly relevant for this job? Do you have experience in this sort of role?

Questions to Ask the Employer

You will have a chance to ask the employer any questions you may have. Preparing a few questions in advance will show the employer that you are serious and are taking a keen interest in their role.
About the Company

What is the company culture like? Are there any offices elsewhere? Which technologies does the company use and what new technologies do you see your organisation adopting in the next few years? Which direction is your company moving in? Who are your main customers?
About the Role

What would a typical day be like for me? Can you tell me more about the role itself? Who are the people I would be working beside and what do they do? Who would I be reporting to? Is there anybody else doing the same role? Will there be any travel involved in this position?

About Training and Development

What are the long-term prospects of the position? What is the likely career development over the next few years? What possible training could I receive in this role? What opportunities are there to further my qualifications?

Some Basic "How to" Networking tips Create Conversations for Success

GRADUATE NETWORKING ADVICE

Networking on the Phone General Networking Questions Conclusion

Introduction to Networking
network / ntwerk n. & v. a group of people who exchange information, contacts, and experience for professional or social purposes. (The Oxford Dictionary) If you were to ask ten different people what networking means to them you could get as many as different answers. How an individual would define it would largely depend on their use of this very important professional and personal activity. It is important to remember that networking is about the exchanging of information, contacts or experience. This is the same whether you network to make new friends, find a new job, develop your current career, explore new career options, obtain referrals or sales leads, or simply to broaden your professional horizons Wherever you are in your career and whatever industry you work in networking helps you make connections in a personal way, which will help to build relationships of support and respect that can help you to discover and create mutual benefits. More than a talent, networking is a skill or a set of skills. Every conference, meeting, lecture and social event is an opportunity to meet people. It is a skill set no serious professional woman of the 21st century can be without.

Some Basic How to Networking Tips

Start with a purpose. It does you no good to attend any networking function unless you know why you are there and what you want to get out of the event. The name- tag is worn on the right side to provide an easy sight-line to your name when shaking hands. Have an effective handshake - you have probably been on the receiving end of at least one "bone-crusher" and one "limp fish so practice your handshake to avoid giving one of those yourself! Introduce yourself! A good way to introduce yourself is by saying your first name twice and then your surname. (I'm Sue. (pause) Sue Jones) This gives people time to absorb your name. Shake hands. Describe who you are or what you do in ten seconds or less. When appropriate, offer a business card and ask the other person for one of his or hers. Sometimes it is more appropriate to exchange business cards when you leave one another. Once the event is over, your networking doesn't stop! Make sure to follow up with those you've met, keep in contact, share information and offer to help in any way you can. You can send a written acknowledgement either by email or a "Thank You" note to your networking contacts.

Create Conversations for Success (Networking Tips)

While the people at Day-Timers have trademarked the slogan: "It's all about you," the most important thing to remember about networking is, "It's NOT all about you." Why? Because the best networkers make it all about other people. Their focus is, "What do you need? How can I

help you?" It's connecting with, and making connections for, other people. The first step is meeting people and finding out who they are and what's important to them. Within the last six months, just a few of the people I've met were: a man representing a document shredding company, a man representing a temporary housing service for executives, a credit counsellor, an insurance broker, and a woman who creates memory albums of prose, poetry and photos for special occasions. That's a pretty diverse bunch! I had no need for their services, but I collected their cards and asked about their work. Since meeting them, I've encountered people who did need their services. I passed on the information. That's networking. Networking begins with having conversations - making a bit of contact with the people who show up in our lives. Everyone has a story to tell. Your job is to find out what the story is. Sometimes it's about what work they do; sometimes it's not. When people learn that I'm a coach and a retired therapist, they often tell me personal stories that say who they are (aside from what they do). The people you meet want to get to know you and to feel that you know them. So you know what networking is, but where and when do you do it? All the time and everywhere at the gym, the post office, a football game. Talk to the woman in the checkout line. Introduce yourself to the guy in the lift and the one sitting next to you on a plane. And, yes, go to those networking events that most people dread - those awkward mixers where a lot of people stand around with drink in hand wondering, "Who can I talk to?" Remember that 90 percent of the people there have the same thought ("I hate this."). They want to talk and will welcome a chance to do it. You can be part of the 90 percent (wondering how soon you can leave) or part of the 10 percent who are doing something else. How do you do "something else"? When you walk in, take TWO of those sticky nametags. On the second one, write something that invites people to approach you. Here are some icebreaker ideas to get your mind working: Jim is a funny guy, and he's really good at telling jokes. He chooses his current favourite joke and writes on the second tag, "Ask me about ___." For example, if his joke is about a priest, a rabbi and a crocodile, he'll write, "Ask me about the crocodile." But jokes are not everyone's style. Don't try to transform yourself into a comedian if that doesn't fit your personality. Martin makes networking a game of information exchange. His tag says, "What do we have in common?" He won't accept anything obvious like, "We both live in London" or "We're both wearing blue shirts." He asks about work, hobbies, family, schools attended, favourite cities, etc. In five minutes, Martin can find something in common with almost anyone. People listening are intrigued; they line up to be his next subject. And they remember him. Sally's business is taking tourists (and locals) on walking tours of her city. Her tag promotes that business: "Have: city secrets -- Need: comfortable shoes." Barbara used a have/need tag to find a job. Sam used it to meet people and find a new flat (after a dramatic rent increase): "Have: greedy landlord -- Need: new flat." Bill works in PR and wants to show people how creative he is. He likes to use nonsense questions on his tag. One of them is: "Did you walk to the market or carry a magazine?" It's his way of getting attention and letting prospects know that he'll get attention for them, too, in creative ways. You can make up your own. When people ask, "What does that mean?" you've started a conversation. If you're looking for reasons not to network, it's easy to collect stories from people who say, "Networking didn't help me!" But those are conversations for excuses. How about choosing to be part of the other group - the people who network every day, make connections and offer to help others? Those are conversations for success. Which sounds best to you?

This article is excerpted from Back to top

www.vault.com. Reprinted with permission.

Networking on the Phone

"Cold calling is probably the single most feared and dreaded thing in the business," says Ed Harper a full-service investment broker with Prudential Bache securities. Harper understates his explanation a bit when he explains that "for most people it's against their nature to call somebody they don't know, and try to get them to give you their money." But take heart: "You get better at it as you go on. If you dont get better at it, unless you're a motivational person naturally, youre probably going to have problems." In our rush-rush age of efficiency, we'll all have problems if we can't use the phone effectively. We may not have to make hundreds of cold calls a day, but sooner or later, we'll probably have to make an important call that may be relatively cold, whether that call involves calling up a potential mentor, or making a pitch about the company we're starting. Here are some tips on networking on the phone from those whose living depends on it: "You tell them what you're doing, but first you ask if they might be busy, if there might be a better time," says Harper. "You say "This is so and so from here and here, do you have a moment to talk'?" This is the first important lesson of introducing yourself on the phone. Just imagine that the other person has someone in his or her office, and hears a person talking like there's no tomorrow. It sounds like a simple and obvious step, but unless you consciously check yourself, you can fall into it, propelled by nervousness or aggressiveness. "I always ask if they have time to talk," Harper says. "One of the big mistakes people make, is, they'll introduce themselves, say "I'd like to interest you in this idea?" and they're off and running. There could be someone at their desk, and (the broker) doesn't even realise the prospect can't even talk." So say the person you're calling is willing to listen. What next? On the phone, keeping the persons interest is a lot like keeping that individuals interest in-person. As a literary agent, Victoria Sanders often pitches projects to editors over the phone in a matter of thirty seconds. "You have to have a really hot and snappy pitch," she says. "The biggest thing is you've got to be able to give them a hook. The first question you have to ask is who's the market, who's going to buy it. You've got to help them sell this to the marketing people, because if they won't take it, it won't get sold. In major houses, it's about marketing." Still, Sanders says that even in a short and intense pitch, one should try to build rapport outside a strictly professional relationship, and that if things go well or a relationship has already been established, a pitch call can be five to ten minutes. "It depends on your relationship with the editor. A lot of it's schmoozing - you talk about other things, and then you get to the pitch, or you talk about the pitch and you talk about the other things. It's all about personal relationships." Sanders' comments point to the fact that even in a brief conversation, we can apply the major tenets of schmoozing. By concentrating on a "hook," Sanders is concentrating on what the relationship means to the other person, in this case, the editor. By making a conversation outside of the business talk, Sanders is applying the social first, or at least, social always, part of the schmoozer's mindset.

This article is excerpted from

www.vault.com. Reprinted with permission.

Back to top

General Networking Questions

What do you do? How long have you done it? What do you enjoy most about what you do? What types of individuals or companies do you typically work with? Why do people typically come to you? What kinds of problems do you solve? How did you get into this field? What do you find most challenging in your role? How or where do you find most of your business? In what geographical areas does your company deliver services? Oh, youre with _________. Ive heard great things about your company. How long have you worked there? What do you like most about ____________? Would you be interested in getting together for lunch sometime? Id enjoy the opportunity to learn more about you and your firm. My clients see me as a resource and, who knows, at some point you might be able to solve challenges faced by one of my clients. You mentioned earlier that your company is going through phenomenal growth. Ive done a great deal of work with firms like yours. I have a couple of ideas that might help you with some of the challenges you are facing. Would you like to get together for lunch sometime? Id be happy to share my ideas with you.

Conclusion
Networking can be highly rewarding. However there are enough horror stories around to suggest it can also be potentially devastating if you act rudely, insensitively, or ignore the needs and desires of others. Remember the most critical part, which is crucial to your success, is that you treat networking as an exchange of ideas, information and experience. You are not selling or simply telling or "sponging" off of others for your own benefit. Be generous in sharing your talents, experiences, and ideas, and always be respectful of those around you. Have fun and good luck!!!