8 Networking Tips from DFA Collab

Stats shows that 80% of all jobs are found through networking. However, networking can seem like a daunting and overwhelming process. We asked DFA alum for their tips and tricks in how to build their professional klout. Some of this may mesh with you, and some might not, but take a look and see if there’s anything you would add to this list!

1. Stay hydrated and keep asking questions. There’s something exciting about this person that you want to find out. Look for their passions that could take you to the heart of them that’s exciting to you. Let the other person tell you something cool about themselves and let your commonalities energize you.
2. Remember your motivation when you are networking (and always!). No matter what you do, there will be hard days and challenging (or discouraging) interactions. It’s important to remember why you are passionate about what you are doing.
3. Bring up key words like “creative,” “design oriented,” and “social impact.” Those key words can allow them to ask more questions and let you tailor the conversation to their interest.
4. Tailor your pitch to the demographic that you’re talking to. Use your DFA empathy — what are they looking for in someone to hire? You can tailor your DFA experience by really listening for what their needs are. This involves having a dialogue and not just a pitch.
5. Try to grasp the lexicon of the person you’re talking to and try to speak that same language. It could help them better understand what you try to express. For example, instead of “teaching” the DFA process, talk about the process, in their terms, and its benefits with respect to their positioning.
6. Don’t be afraid to reach out to strangers. There are amazing people out there whowant to help anyone interested in their career path. If they happen to not respond, ping them again!
7. Be prepared with a good idea of what you want to get out of networking by knowing your priorities. Write down your values and assign ratings to them. Rate your offers by how well they fulfill your needs. List what you don’t want as well and assign negative points.
8. If you find it difficult to talk about the design process, find the common ground with the person that you are talking to (like prototyping, leadership, or teamwork). Find your focus and use it to go through the thought process. If you have a visual aid, even if your final product doesn’t look pretty, it’s important to talk about how you got there in order to show how you make your decisions.