Networking workshop highlighted a number of aspects of the job hunt, and in particular why networking is such a valuable tool to help you find work. One of the most important elements was the elevator pitch. The principle behind this is that when you meet somebody, you need to be able to express quickly who you are, what you are looking for and what you bring to the table for a potential employer. If you can express this succinctly, it will help because you often do not have much time to make an impression on somebody or to communicate these things. One exercise concept was to practice doing this in a tweet, because it helps you become more economical in how you use words, to focus on expressing only the key ideas. The workshop then took us through the getting started phase. This means writing down your experiences and skills, so that you know what it is you bring to the table. It is always important, to convey a positive impression, that you can outline some of your accomplishments quickly for anybody who is interested. But you yourself should know what you've done because that will also give you confidence during the network process. Learning how to highlight your own achievements is an important step in the job hunt.

There was a section of the workshop dedicated specifically to the elevator pitch. Not only is this related to the content of the pitch -- your profession, your track record, strengths and experiences -- but also how to come across. One of the challenges with networking...

You need to come across as a likeable, authentic person, which can be difficult while simultaneously delivering a sales pitch. It is all about striking the right balance. Some time was spent focusing on certain elements of this presentation, like having appropriate attire and avoiding unprofessional speech.
The process of networking was also the subject of a number of workshops. This covered things like LinkedIn, and networking events. This was an insightful session that covered specific elements like managing your flow around the room, avoiding being a card spammer and treating people as friends, rather than as people who exist simply to help you find a job. Building relationships around the room was considered to be a key ideal to strive for, and to ensure that you focus attention on how you come across. If you are going to be aggressive, then you have to answer the question of "why should people care?"

I found the networking session to be quite informative. There were of course things I already knew, but there was a lot of stuff I didn't know. I can see from what I learned where I have made mistakes in the past, for example, and maybe some of that explains why haven't had the luck with networking that I thought I would have. In that sense, this was a valuable, educational experience for me.

Knowing that networking was a real weakness for me, and that I have a job search coming up to…