I've been "networking" since I came out of the womb...A few tips & tricks!

I have a million friends who can't stand networking. Not only my friends but also my entire family. I'm not sure how I ended up the way I am with a mother who tells me she rather jump off a bridge than do the majority of things I do... PR, serving, events, etc.

Networking has become second nature to me and I do it without even realizing. I think this is partly because since a very young age my mom (who was working as well as doing her PhD) put me into summer camps for almost every week of every summer. I didn't know any of these other kids but nobody wants to be the loner at summer camp, so I quickly learned to play nice and make friends, lots of them.

You do not need to be at a fancy event to network, you can do it all day everyday. At the coffee shop, grocery store, on the subway. Making connections will never hurt you, only help you.

Networking is a full time job for CCPR students like us!

I realize situations like that are most peoples' worse nightmare, and I don't blame you. Being thrown into a new situation is nerve-wracking for everyone. I'm sure as a little kid my stomach tossed and turned walking into a day camp full of strange kids. However, I have come to learn a few tips and tricks which I think everyone can use when going into these situations, whether it's a party, new school or new job.

1. Always smile. Even if you feel uncomfortable as hell, put a smile on your face. Smiling makes you approachable and there are probably lots of other people in the room feeling the same way you do. Seeing someone smile will let them know you're open to chatting and building a relationship.

2. Look presentable. I don't think ugh needs to be said about this point. Please don't wear sweatpants and a hoodie if you are trying to impress people.

3. Connect with people. Connecting can be done through finding similar interests or mutual friends. The more you listen to what people are saying, the more likely you will find something you can relate to. Through relating to them you not only begin to form a relationship with them but they also have something to remember you by... "Oh yes, you're the girl who loves that japanese restaurant by my house".

4. Act interested. If you are busy scanning the room while someone is having a conversation with you, you appear completely disengaged and uninterested in what they are saying. Nothing is more of a turn off than talking to someone who seems like they could care less about what you have to say. If you need to excuse yourself do so, but do not scan the room like you're looking for someone else better to talk to.

5. Follow up. After you meet people, don't be afraid to send them an email, text or even tweet saying how nice it was to meet them. People love to feel important, don't ever forget that.

Hopefully this will make some people less nervous when they're put in networking situations. I think I'm going to email this blog post over to my mother....

- JS