How to start networking| Dodging Landmines

Sydnie Kohara: People always seem to be talking about networking. I need to go here. I need to network with this person, but I really don't see how it can get me ahead in my job. Why do I need to dot his?

Starla Sireno: The fact is, that we cannot succeed alone. You can't do anything alone. Networking is nothing more than relationships. It's nothing more than making connections with other people and the better you treat other people, the more likely they will be to help you.

Sydnie Kohara: What is the most common mistake when it comes to networking?

Starla Sireno: Waiting until you need something. So the most common way I see this is someone needs a job and all of the sudden they're thinking about networking. And people know that. People know that you're just out there fishing for what you can do for them, intead of building a foundation of trust and a real relationship.

Sydnie Kohara: So what is the best way to start networking?

Starla Sireno: I have three rules for networking. The first is be real, just be yourself and connect with people who you really like. The second is don't be thinking about what you are going to be getting out of it and the third is just the golden rule. Treat others the way that you want to be treated.

Sydnie Kohara: In summary?

Starla Sireno: In summary, networking is just about connecting and treating people the way that you want to be treated. And the more you help other people the more they'll be willing to help you when you need it.