63.

Get Organized for Networking

You may not love the analogy, but think of the marketing materials you use to promote yourself as guns in your holster. Have them with you whenever you might need them—and pull them out as appropriate. These materials include the following:

• Business cards. These should be easy to read, and should contain appropriate information such as your name, phone number(s), email address, website, street address, and a slug line (“Editor,” “Graphic Design,” “IT Consulting,” etc.). Check with the people in your industry to learn what fits. A business card with an artistic pattern on colored cardstock would probably be inappropriate for an accountant, but just right for a video editor.
• Your online presence. If people in your industry expect you to have an online presence, you must give it to them. Learn where you should be. LinkedIn? Facebook? Twitter? Your own website? Videos of your work on YouTube? Should you carry around an iPad or a laptop so you can easily demo your work to the people you meet?

In addition, if you'll be attending networking events—such as conferences, conventions, or trade shows—carry pens, paper, and breath mints with you. Also bring product samples, a bio or résumé, your portfolio on a flash drive, bottled water, a bag in which to carry the stuff you pick up, etc. (The list will vary according to the field you work in and the type of event it is.) Finally, wear attire appropriate to your industry and the event.

One word of caution about these events (as well as career fairs): Lower your expectations. The people you'll be meeting have priorities other than hiring you. Many are there to sell their wares, or are attending as buyers. Don't go with the intention of finding work, expecting to hand out résumés and get on-site interviews. Otherwise, you will probably be very disappointed. Instead, go with the intention of meeting people and learning about new products and trends in your industry. Have fun, make friends, and pick up information and business cards—and then follow up afterward.