At its best, networking is exploring personal interests. Bright has an amazing ability to draw out people, and she truly listens to what they are saying. What people remember about you is how interested you were in them. Everyone likes to talk about themselves, especially their favorite things whether it is their business, children, issues, or hobbies. One writer was able to develop an excellent relationship with a well known activist, not only due to their interest in the same cause, but also due to their mutual love of books and book stores and trading stories of the zany antics of their respective cats.
People are the critical element.
The most unlikely person may be the one to open the doors. Whether looking for the first or second or third job, or wanting to change careers, talk to everyone, from the manicurist, to great Aunt Mabel to the obvious sources like people you know in the industry or company. E-mail address books can provide invaluable help. Notes to family, friends, names on the rolodex asking for help and suggestion on the job search can also bring positive results. Patty DeDominic, founder and CEO of PDQ Personnel Services, Inc. and a well known speaker, writes in her book, The New World of Work , about the importance of pampering the people whom you have asked for help.