The post 4 Strategies for Finding the Right Recruiter for Your Job Search appeared first on Brazen Life.

All the cool kids are using their network to get referrals for jobs that aren’t on job boards, and the coolest of the cool kids don’t just stop with people they know — they reach out and network with recruiters. But hold on, tiger. Don’t go firing off emails to every recruiter you come across. You have to find the right kind of recruiter for you. (Click here to tweet this list.)

1. Check your network

First the obvious: use your network!

Reach out through LinkedIn, emails, or however you stay in contact with your contacts, and focus on people in your industry and with the same level of experience. See who has dealt with recruiters, or knows someone who has, and write down anyone who gets positive reviews.

Stick to recruiters in your niche. They will have dealt with companies and employers in your industry and can help guide you through the hiring process.

2. Network on niche job boards

You might be thinking, “He just poked fun at job boards, and now he’s saying they’re useful?” Yes. Yes I am.

Good niche job boards have two advantages over larger, more general job boards like Monster and Indeed:

• Job postings might mention a recruiter or recruiting firm by name, so you can research and contact them.
• They have an established community of professionals in your industry, with whom you can communicate and build your network.

So, second verse same as the first — reach out to the community and see if people are willing to recommend recruiters they know and like. Barring that, you can see which recruiters and firms work in your niche.

3. Find recruiters on Twitter

Twitter has become a fantastic resource for both jobseekers and recruiters. You can use it to find recruiters in your niche and engage with them.

In the search bar, type something like “accounting recruiter” or “IT recruiter” to find recruiters who specialize in an industry or specific job. On the left side of the results page, click on “people” to narrow the search so you only find actual recruiters.

Another resource is Followerwonk.com, where you can perform the same type of search as on Twitter, but narrowed by location.

Check each person’s Twitter profile for links to a personal website or recruiting firm’s site. Recruiters you find this way will be similar to those you find on niche job boards — you’ll need to do some research on them unless you know someone who can recommend them.

4. Find recruiters with Boolean strings

Here’s a new twist on an old trick: A lot of recruiters use Boolean strings to find candidates through Google, job boards, or social media sites such as LinkedIn. You can use the same method to find recruiters.

You can use strings to search for recruiters on specific sites, such as LinkedIn. On Google, search something like the following: site:linkedin.com “marketing recruiter” AND San Francisco –inurl:dir.

Here’s that string broken down:

• site: restricts the results to what it can find ONLY in that website, which was LinkedIn in the above example
• “Marketing recruiter” restricts results to pages that contain the exact phrase within the quotation marks
• AND San Francisco further restricts results to the phrase in quotes that also have the location somewhere on the page
• -inurl:dir removes any results that go to directories, which won’t be useful for you

Basically, use the same formula and commands that recruiters use to find candidates, but sub in “recruiter.”

5. Reach out and be courteous

Once you’ve made a complete list, refine it to a handful of recruiters that seem best for you and your goals. Next, reach out to them while you keep in mind a few important things:

• They have to maintain a good relationship with employers, not you specifically.
• They’re knowledgeable about your niche, so they can give valuable advice.
• Having a good relationship with recruiters could help your career for years.
• Staying in contact with them helps keep your relationship strong.
• Whatever help or advice they give you, thank them for their help and advice.

The last thing to remember is that these tips should not be the only method you use for finding a job. You shouldn’t stop searching through job boards — yes, job boards — and building your personal brand online.

Brian Stewart is a career content writer at ResumeTarget.com. They are the only resume writing company that offers a professionally written resume coupled with the guidance of recruiters to guarantee that your resume will get results.

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The post Work (or Want to Work) in Recruiting or HR? Join Us for This Free Networking Event appeared first on Brazen Life.

We’ve got an event for you!

On Thursday, August 21st, at noon EST, we’re hosting a FREE networking event for the Brazen community, with a focus on professionals who work in RECRUITING and HR.

That means if you work in recruiting or HR — or you want to work in recruiting or HR — you should join us!

Click here to register.

Our community is full of ambitious young professionals — hustlers, creatives and entrepreneurs who understand the importance of having a job you love. We want to help you meet one another, so you can rely on the support of your peers as you navigate your own career. We’ve organized this networking event online and during your lunch hour, so you can attend whether you work for an employer or have your own business.

Most importantly, this will be FUN! Remember, Brazen Careerist originated as a social network, and we still believe relationships are the foundation of a successful career. As an added bonus, this is an opportunity to try out Brazen’s software, the same awesome platform we use for recruiting events.

How It Works

It couldn’t be easier to join this event. Register now, and we’ll send you a link to join us on Thursday, August 21st.

During the event, you’ll be paired with multiple participants from around the region, country and world for several rounds of seven-minute, text-based chats. We’ll even save those conversations for you so you can revisit them later. After the event, we encourage you to connect with any interesting people on your favorite social networks; that will help you turn your chat into a mutually-beneficial relationship.

It’s like online speed dating, minus the awkwardness.

Hope you’ll join us!

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The post 10 Networking Tips from Your Grandfather That Still Apply Today appeared first on Brazen Life.

Yet, to many people, this is exactly what the word “networking” implies: an all-out firestorm of meeting and greeting, everything delicately iced with your signature brand of modest self-congratulation. It’s no surprise you’ve spent years shying away from the process. Who wants to deal with all that?

Well, the good news is that this is a misperception. Done right, networking needn’t be stressful or feel sleazy. Instead, take a cue from good old Grandpappy, and apply a more old-fashioned approach to this sometimes daunting chore. Check out these 10 tips for ways to start building your network authentically and worry-free. (Click here to tweet this list.)

1. Be on time

Punctuality always helps to make a great first impression. But being on time can reward you in more ways than one. For instance, Entrepreneur recommends showing up early for conferences and events. That way, you get a chance to scope out the scene before the crowds roll in and can easily find other people to connect with.

2. Don’t discount anyone

The idea of networking is frightening. In response, we tend to take a fear-based approach, only listing someone as a potential contact if a) we know them pretty well and b) they owe us one. Instead, make a list of everyone you know. That way you won’t miss someone who could help you.

3. Be formal

All right, so “To Whom It May Concern” has gone the way of the dinosaur. But people still appreciate formality and may take umbrage if you use their first names uninvited. To avoid looking presumptuous, use last names until otherwise informed, along with a “Mr.” or “Ms.” Avoid using “Mrs.” unless you happen to know the lady in question is married.

4. Celebrate good times

In the old days, people celebrated their clients’ wins and triumphs, marriages and babies, successful ventures and new launches. Grab some small-town spirit and send congratulatory notes to those in your network. It’s a great way to connect and put yourself back on their radar.

5. Get to the point

Granddaddy didn’t mess around, so why should you? If you’ve got a question to ask, ask it. State the nature of the favor you’d like instead of beating around the bush and hoping someone will suggest it. Get to the point: Everyone appreciates it.

6. Be strategic

Networking shouldn’t resemble a game of pin the tail on the donkey. Make a plan, then follow it. For instance, you might start by making a list of the contacts you regularly turn to, then broaden that list with online contacts you don’t know quite as well. Next on the strategic agenda: cold-calling.

7. Give like there’s no tomorrow

You’re not in kindergarten, but the golden rule still applies. If you want someone to do something for you, be generous in turn. Helping people is a great way to get noticed, so make introductions and do small favors whenever you can. Especially when giving costs you nothing, as is the case with a short positive review or testimonial, it’s a savvy thing to do.

8. Follow up

Although “following up” can seem synonymous with “badgering the heck out of,” that’s not true. When you wait a respectful amount of time before checking back in with a potential employer, client or contact, you appear conscientious and organized. Just don’t go overboard: If someone doesn’t get back to you after two attempts, beat a quiet retreat.

9. Keep it local

Your grandfather often didn’t have much of a choice, but you do. While networking outside your area isn’t off the table, you may get further in your hometown. Equal opportunity is a nice idea, but in reality, people like to help others in their own community. Plus, when it comes to the job search, employers usually respond better to applicants who don’t have to move.

10. Be polite

Good manners consist of more than “please” or “thank you.” They also require that you respect the time, interests and energy of others. If you’re pitching an idea, for instance, check in with phrases such as “Would you like to hear more?” This tells your listener that you care about them and value their opinion, which increases your chances of actually getting a yes.

Sarah Beth Moore is a freelance writer and web designer living in the Pacific Northwest. She has a master’s degree in education as well as journalism, and blogs at http://positivelydreaming.com.

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The post Next Time You Meet Someone New, Try Asking These Questions appeared first on Brazen Life.

But is “What do you do?” a good question to ask anymore? Why are we so focused on what someone does for a living — and in today’s job-hopping society, does it even make sense?

Freelance journalist Mónica Guzmán doesn’t think so. In a recent GeekWire article, she says the classic question is outdated, explaining: “Its assumptions are stale, and we need an upgrade.”

Your job is not your identity

Why the need for a change? Guzmán says these question make your job the item of utmost importance, as well as the source of your identity — two assumptions that aren’t true for everyone.

If you’re stumped at what else to say, Guzmán offers five alternatives, which she culled from her Facebook community.

Here are our favorites:

• What are you working on these days?
• What do you like to do?
• What are you building?

Since these questions are more personal and open-ended, Guzmán says they’ll allow your new friend to choose the direction they want the conversation to take — whether it be their job(s), hobbies, or passions.

Do you think “What do you do?” is outdated? Will you try out any of these alternatives at your next networking event?

Susan Shain (@TravlJunkette) is a travel blogger who loves helping people discover adventure through international travel or alternative careers.

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The post Networking Events in Cleveland: 6 Groups Worth Checking Out appeared first on Brazen Life.

From the city’s healthcare industry hub to advanced manufacturing facilities to academia, professionals are finding meaningful roles in the Cleveland area. Here are six groups that’ll help you meet the right crowd for you. (Click here to tweet this list.)

1. Cleveland 20/30

The Cleveland Professional 20/30 Club offers programming in four areas: social, networking, philanthropic, and educational. A weekly networking breakfast on Friday mornings can help you ease into this active network. Nervous about approaching fellow attendees? Networking Committee members are happy to make an introduction.

2. Mobile Monday Cleveland

Mobile Monday hosts events around the world, but Cleveland’s growing tech scene makes its speaker series worth attending. Featured guests share their experiences in the business-meets-tech space, but you might also find yourself sounding off in mobile tech discussions. There are only six events each year, so register early!

3. Engage! Cleveland

In the early stages of your career? Engage! Cleveland will help you explore ways to grow in the local professional community. Take a nonprofit leadership workshop, visit public art events, or sit back and listen at the Young Professional Speaker Series. Seasonal mixers remind you to take time to relax.

4. ClevelandGives

Choose a unique volunteer opportunity! But first: your group of local professionals will learn a practical skill to assist you in your task for the day. You’ll go home with business cards in your pocket and an appreciation for your newly-practiced skills.

5. Neighbor Up Network Night

Neighborhood Connections hosts this monthly meetup to encourage networking on a hyper-local level. Keep an open mind as you explore ways to connect with locals in your industry — or in vastly different fields. Neighborhood Connections partners with community groups to offer volunteer opportunities and job fairs: two more great ways to network.

6. Network After Work Cleveland

There’s no programming or long-term commitment. Just pick at monthly event and grab your name tag — color-coded to help you find your industry — and get ready to meet a few hundred professionals at some of Cleveland’s hottest downtown watering holes. Tickets for each event cost under $20. Arrive early to these all-evening events and you’ll be able to enjoy some light appetizers on the house.

What other networking events in Cleveland would you add to this list?

Lisa Rowan is a writer and editor in Washington, D.C.

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The post Networking in the City of Brotherly Love: 9 Must-Attend Philadelphia Events appeared first on Brazen Life.

Named one of the top 20 happiest cities for young professionals by Forbes and CareerBliss.com, there’s no shortage of worthwhile groups to join and networking events to attend here in the city of brotherly love.

Get out your calendar! Here are nine can’t-miss networking events in Philadelphia.

1. Philly Tech Week

Save the date for a magically techy week here in Philadelphia every April. Philly Tech Week, hosted by Technical.ly Philly, brings together thousands of people for more than 140 events in the span of one week. With different tracks including media, development, civic, business, access and creative, you’re sure to find at least one event to pique your interest. Plus, you can play Tetris on the side of one of Philadelphia’s largest skyscrapers (seriously). Technical.ly Philly also puts on their own regular networking events year-round, so be sure to stay tuned to their site for details.

2. Philadelphia After Work

With more than 500,000 members in 42 locations throughout the country, Philadelphia After Work is part of the popular national group Networking After Work. With upcoming summer events from at some of the city’s hottest bars, come grab a drink and enjoy a relaxed, casual setting for networking with some of Philly’s top business minds. Upon your arrival, you’ll receive a color-coded name tag by industry, so you can easily find those you might have a connection with. Philadelphia After Work meets monthly from 6-9 p.m.

3. Young Professional Network Philly

Chambers of Commerces are usually a good place to start when looking for great networking opportunities, and the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce is no exception. With a super active Young Professional Network (YPN), this niche group of the Chamber offers networking events, educational seminars (they recently hosted one on personal branding), volunteer opportunities and more.

4. Social Media Club Philadelphia

With monthly-ish happy hours, Social Media Club Philadelphia is your go-to group for the latest chatter on all things social media. Bonus: this organization has a pretty active and interesting Facebook group filled with daily commentary on the latest social media tips and trends.

5. Philly Geek Awards

The ultimate geeky networking event is the annual Philly Geek Awards, put on by Geekadelphia, which honors Philly’s vibrant geek scene at the most perfect venue possible: the Academy of Natural Sciences. Philly’s brightest minds come together for this black tie affair complete with cocktails, delicious food and a night of honoring some of the coolest geeky things happening in the city. Rub elbows with the winners of awards like scientist of the year, startup of the year, comic creator of the year and more. The 2015 awards are coming up on August 16.

6. Philadelphia TechBreakfast

Networking events aren’t just for after hours! Start your day right with a networking event over breakfast every month at Drexel University with like-minded techies, startups and businesses. Modeled after existing TechBreakfasts all over the country, this group meets monthly to demo the latest technologies with a “show and tell” approach to networking. No more boring PowerPoint presentations here!

7. Startup Grind Philadelphia

A global startup community designed to “educate, inspire and connect entrepreneurs,” Startup Grind came to Philadelphia in 2013 and has been hosting insightful monthly events ever since. Hosted each month, network with fellow entrepreneurs and hear from some of the area’s most prominent startups, fireside chat style. While you’re there, get a glimpse at one of Philadelphia’s unique coworking spaces, as all of Startup Grind’s events are hosted at Benjamin’s Desk.

8. Philly Ad Club YP Third Thursday Networking Happy Hour

Gather together with some of Philly’s most creative minds each third Thursday of the month for a casual networking happy hour with the young professionals subset of the Philly Ad Club. If you work in advertising, marketing or communications, this group is for you. Plus, you’ll get to make the rounds of some of the city’s coolest bars and event spaces.

9. TEDxPhiladelphia

Love watching TED talks on YouTube? Watch them in real life at the all-day event put on by an independent not-for-profit group each year in Philadelphia. Last year’s theme was “The New Workshop of the World” and the event sold out well before the much-anticipated date. Speakers ranged from a high school junior to the CEO of a Philly hospital to a Project Runway winner, giving attendees a wide variety of inspiring and insightful content throughout the conference. A date hasn’t been set for 2015, but watch their website so you can snag a ticket before they’re all gone.

Jessica Lawlor is a public relations professional and freelance writer in the Philadelphia area. Her work has been published on Ragan’s PR Daily, Muck Rack, Brazen Careerist, Mediabistro, Business Insider and AOL Jobs. She blogs at JessicaLawlor.com about getting gutsy- stepping outside your comfort zone to reach your goals and live a life that makes you truly happy.

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The post Work (or Want to Work) for a Nonprofit? Join Us for This Free Networking Event appeared first on Brazen Life.

We’ve got an event for you!

On Thursday, July 17th, at noon EST, we’re hosting a FREE networking event for the Brazen community, with a focus on professionals who work at NONPROFITS and ASSOCIATIONS.

That means if you work for a nonprofit, or you want to work for a nonprofit, you should join us!

Click here to register.

Our community is full of ambitious young professionals — hustlers, creatives and entrepreneurs who understand the importance of having a job you love. We want to help you meet one another, so you can rely on the support of your peers as you navigate your own career. We’ve organized this networking event online and during your lunch hour, so you can attend whether you work for an employer or have your own business.

Most importantly, this will be FUN! Remember, Brazen Careerist originated as a social network, and we still believe relationships are the foundation of a successful career. As an added bonus, this is an opportunity to try out Brazen’s software, the same awesome platform we use for recruiting events.

How It Works

It couldn’t be easier to join this event. Register now, and we’ll send you a link to join us on Thursday, July 17th.

During the event, you’ll be paired with multiple participants from around the region, country and world for several rounds of seven-minute, text-based chats. We’ll even save those conversations for you so you can revisit them later. After the event, we encourage you to connect with any interesting people on your favorite social networks; that will help you turn your chat into a mutually-beneficial relationship.

It’s like online speed dating, minus the awkwardness.

Hope you’ll join us!

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The post Get Recruited: Upcoming Brazen Recruiting and Networking Events (June) appeared first on Brazen Life.

But did you know Brazen also partners with popular employers and universities around the country to put on virtual career fairs and networking events?

Our platform allows talented candidates to connect directly with recruiters, hiring managers and other decision-makers to see if there’s a match with a particular company or organization. Doesn’t that sound more civilized than applying to a standard job listing and never hearing anything back?

Many of our partners ask us to bring the best job candidates to these events, which means YOU have a chance to get recruited. This is your opportunity to take a step up in your industry and transition into your dream job.

Want an invite to our next event? Sign up for our newsletter, and we’ll keep you posted!

Get psyched about these upcoming events

This month, an impressive roster of employers, universities and organizations are hosting events on the Brazen platform. We’re excited to partner with Bryaman Construction, Geico, Raytheon Engineering, Intuit, and many more impressive employers who are looking to chat one-on-one about open positions — as well as make hires.

On the university side, we’re working with University of Rochester, Ohio State, Villonova, DePaul, Penn State, LaGrange College, Virginia Military Institute, and more to host networking events that help alumni and students make valuable connections. Don’t you want to be in on this goodness? Sign up for our newsletter to get on the invite list! If you’re with a university, employer or other group, click here to host your own online networking event. We’ll be in touch right away!

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The post Want to Work for a Startup in Seattle? Check Out These Networking Events appeared first on Brazen Life.

You don’t have to wade through dozens of generalized networking nights. These seven Seattle startup-specific events will put you on the path to making the right connections: (Click here to tweet this list.)

1. Seattle Tech Meetup

If you’re going for big numbers, your best bet is the monthly Seattle Tech Meetup. The event regularly draws hundreds of people, from aspiring engineers to seasoned marketers. For your $10 ticket, you’ll get some food, some drinks and five presentations from Seattle companies doing cool things with technology.

If you really want to dip your toe in slowly, you can start by following their very lively hashtag (#STMeetup) or watch their livestream of the event before committing to the event in person. (That said, you should probably just go in person! That is the whole point of the “networking” part. …)

Cost: $10 per event

2. Startup Weekend

If you’re looking for a jam-packed experience of what it’s like to be an entrepreneur — the lows, the highs! — Startup Weekend is for you.

Startup Weekends are popping up across the globe, but the structure is always same: All participants pitch their startup ideas and get feedback. Then builders, designers and marketers form teams around the top ideas and “it’s a 54-hour frenzy of business model creation, coding, designing, and market validation,” the site says. “The weekends culminate with presentations in front of local entrepreneurial leaders with another opportunity for critical feedback.”

This can be the perfect place to make strong connections, fast. Fifty-four hours of insanity has a way of really bringing people together!

Cost: $99 to participate, $25 to watch the Demo Day

3. Startup Grind

The Startup Grind has a different focus: Each month they bring in one speaker to share his or her startup story. You get to hear what worked, what didn’t and what that person will do differently next time. Hosted at the utilitarian Dice Cabana downtown, you can count on some noshes, drinks and interesting people.

Cost: From $14 to $23 per event

4. Content Strategy Seattle

If you’re interested in the content/marketing/communication side of startups, Content Strategy is a good choice to meet like-minded people. You can expect food, beverages, an interesting meetup location (like the Makerhaus in Ballard), and wide-ranging topics — “Sexy Content for Boring Industries” was a recent favorite.

While the focus is, obviously, on content strategy, the people you meet there include UX designers, product planners, marketers and beyond.

Note: There’s typically a cap at 35 people (with a wait list), so you’ll have to move fast to guarantee a spot.

Cost: Usually about $10

5. Seattle Entrepreneurs

Founded in 2002, Seattle Entrepreneurs is one of the older groups on this list and that’s not a bad thing at all — over the years, they’ve found their groove. You can count on attention-grabbing content (from how to build your startup team to how to market your next app) and 20 to 50 people at each event.

Fun fact: The revenue that’s generated from ticket prices benefits the Global Music Project.org, a non-profit organization dedicated to uniting people through music and cultural awareness. Kind of cool, right?

Cost: Typically from $12 to $25 per event

6. Seattle AI & UX Meetup

This meetup is billed as having “good company and geeky conversations.” True to their word, you can drink, chat, and network with 60 to 70 information architects, librarians, usability experts, user experience designers and interaction designers at this monthly event.

While not exclusively focused on startups, you’ll meet a large swath of people who work in the Pioneer Square startup world. The format is casual and there is always pizza — two major pluses.

Cost: Usually about $10

7. Seattle Startup Open Coffee

This Open Coffee is great if you’re looking for a more relaxed setting with a smaller crowd — think 8 to 15 people. At this weekly staple at Louisa’s Coffee in the Eastlake neighborhood, you can grab your latte and kick back to chat about new startup ideas, access to funding and startup resources. Warning: It meets at 8:30 a.m., so you’ll need to be an early-ish riser, or just rely on the delicious Louisa’s Coffee brews to keep your eyes open.

Cost: The price of a cup of coffee

Annie Rose Favreau is a Seattle-based digital marketer and startup problem solver. You can find her Twittering away at @A_Favreau.

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The post Networking in Atlanta: 7 Opportunities to Meet Interesting Professionals appeared first on Brazen Life.

From the tech scene to the nonprofit world, here are seven solid networking groups worth an introduction.

1. YNPN Atlanta

The Young Nonprofit Professionals Network (YNPN) of Atlanta supports future leaders in the region’s nonprofit sector through social events and professional development opportunities. Many of the monthly networking events are free, and extra fun events—like “speed geeking,” where you learn how to use your personal interests to develop professional connections—mix up the routine.

2. Atlanta Women’s Network

Hoping to meet local businesswomen in a non-competitive environment? Maybe you’d like to find a mentor, but don’t know where to start. The Atlanta Women’s Network, founded in 1979, hosts a variety of mixers and discussions with the area’s business leaders. A mentoring program is available for members (dues run around $150/year).

3. Atlanta Under 40

Atlanta Under 40 hopes that a bit of mingling can lead to friendship — and maybe a little business, too. Monthly networking happy hours hosted by this “no strings attached” group are just $10 if you pay in advance, and a few appetizers are usually provided. The crew rotates among favorite watering holes and new venues.

4. Women in Technology

The Women in Technology (WIT) Atlanta Women Business Network understands that it takes a lot to balance work and life. That’s why they schedule their events at varying times—early mornings, lunch hour, or after work—to host monthly forums and development opportunities. No membership is required, and volunteer opportunities are available for tech women wishing to work with future STEM stars.

5. The Atlanta Fashion Industry Meetup Group

This members-only Meetup caters to Atlanta’s stylish side. Boasting nearly 2,000 designers, bloggers, photographers, stylists, and other professionals, the group seeks to connect the many elements that intersect to keep us looking sharp.

6. Social Media Club – Atlanta

Atlanta’s active branch of the Social Media Club welcomes all types of online communications professionals. Sign up for a topical “lunch ‘n learn” session or try something a little more creative: for example, a social media case study cage match. If the competition is too intense for you to take the stage, you’re still sure to make some great connections in the audience.

7. ULGA-YP

The Urban League of Greater Atlanta Young Professionals brings together those who work to build and strengthen their communities. Just one example of an interactive event: an idea hackathon to help fellow young professionals brainstorm solutions for community issues. You’ll be so wrapped up in the goal that you’ll barely realize you’re making connections.

If you live in Atlanta, what other groups would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments!

Lisa Rowan is a writer and editor in Washington, D.C. Her typical sin at networking events: getting distracted by the hors d’oeuvres.

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The post Why Losing Out on the Job Doesn’t Make You a Loser–Unless You Let It appeared first on Brazen Life.

Often times no matter how perfect you are for that job or promotion, you get the dreaded from email or call from HR telling you the hiring manager liked you, but went with another candidate. There are a lot of reasons this could happen. You might not have been as perfect as you thought, or they might already have had someone slotted for the job.

After the initial disappointment, you might think to yourself, or even say out loud to colleagues, “I heard the hiring manager is a terrible boss. I would never want to work for someone like that, anyway.” This is an example of the ice cream syndrome.

The ice cream syndrome is when a child is told they can’t have what they want, and they respond with “Well, I didn’t want it, anyway.” In simplest terms, it means being a sore loser. Instead of going down this path, put a smile on your face and simply say, “Thank you for the opportunity.” (Click here to tweet about the ice cream syndrome.)

Keep these tips in mind:

Enhance your reputation — don’t diminish it

If you’ve searched for a job, you know it’s a frustrating and difficult process. Waiting to hear from HR is enough to make a sane person go crazy. When you finally get the call, the news might not be what you hope to hear.

Although your first inclination is to be short with the person, stop yourself. Instead, say “Thank you for getting back to me, and please think of me in the future.” In a corporate environment, everything you do affects your reputation. If you’re ungrateful, it’s more likely you’ll make a bad name for yourself.

Don’t aggravate recruiters, impress them. Make sure you present yourself in a positive light at all times. Your reputation precedes you, so give yourself every advantage.

Losing graciously may eventually get you a future opportunity

You didn’t get the job, and someone else with less experience won out. This is the corporate world. Get used to it. Although they have nothing to do with the ultimate decision, internal recruiters are the gatekeepers.

If you make friends with a recruiter during the interview process, they may be able to present you with opportunities in the future. Even if you didn’t get the job you wanted, consider sending the hiring manager a thank you email and ask them to keep you in mind for the future. Few do this. Demonstrate to the manager you’re someone who learns from every opportunity and continues to look to the future.

Show your company they missed out on someone great

If someone else on your team gets the job over you, congratulate them. This may not be easy, but managers will take note. Being a team player says a lot about a person and ultimately helps you succeed.

Skills and knowledge are important, but attitude goes a long way. Demonstrating to a recruiter or hiring manager you’re grateful for every opportunity may lead to more opportunities in the future. Losing is part of life. Do it right and opportunity will knock at your door.

Lainee Beigel is the founder of Career Esquire. She assists professionals with networking and interviewing skills, as well as career path guidance.

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The post The Mere Exposure Effect and How It Helps with Networking appeared first on Brazen Life.

We’re told to just “start networking,” but in reality it’s never that simple. When you’re new to the professional networking scene, figuring out how exactly to create meaningful connections that lead to real opportunities can seem overwhelming and out of reach. Say you go to an event and get someone’s business card—how are you then supposed to keep the relationship going?

It turns out that when done right, networking is far from just a way to reach Linkedin Influencer status or get free drinks at happy hour. It’s actually a complex relationship-building exercise that takes a degree of practice and skill. (Click here to tweet this thought.)

The good news is that there’s a great brain hack which can help you elevate simple acquaintances to their greatest potential, and all it takes is a bit of consistency. It’s what’s known in psychology circles as the mere exposure effect, and when understood and used to your advantage, it can yield big results to help you supercharge your networking activities in a lasting way that grows your career.

The mere exposure effect (also known as the familiarity principle), suggests that simply being repeatedly exposed to a person, thing, or idea increases our liking for it. According to this principle, the more time you spend with someone, the more likely you are to have a preference and positive opinion of him or her.

Using the mere exposure effect to build your professional network can ultimately help you strengthen your skill set, provide you with contacts who can help you land a new job, set you up with a reference, or simply serve as a mentor to seek out advice from.

So the next time you’re prompted to ”just get out there and do some networking,” kick it up a notch by employing the Dos and Don’ts of the mere exposure effect.

DO Follow Up Like a Pro.

After a job interview, conference, or event, failing to follow up is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Think about that pile of business cards you’ve collected over the years: how many of those people are you no longer in touch with? You probably shared a good conversation when you met, but if you let the lines of communication go dead, you’re losing out on an opportunity to forge a stronger bond, and in turn, to grow the relationship. After you trade business cards, send your new contact a “thank you” or “nice to meet you” email within a day or two. In the coming weeks and months, check in periodically to ensure you remain top-of-mind, each time providing some kind of value to the person. Adding value to the relationship consistently over time is the number one key to leveraging the mere exposure effect. Do this by sharing relevant blog posts, book recommendations, or events via email once a month, meeting for coffee, or letting the person know how you took action and saw results based on advice they gave you.

DO “Like”, Tweet, and Connect.

Social media is a no-brainer when it comes to extending your networking efforts beyond in-person interaction. Be sure to connect with your new contact on LinkedIn, and, if appropriate for your company or field, follow the person and their organization on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, etc. Show your continued engagement and dedication to building a long-term relationship by liking, sharing, or commenting on their posts every now and then. Every time you do so, your contact is not only reminded of you (and what makes you great), but they also receive a rush of serotonin, the brain’s reward chemical, which boosts their self-worth, making them associate you with feeling good.

DON’T Overdo it.

Familiarity does breed attraction, but no one likes to be pestered. Say you’re interviewing for a new job and have been expecting to hear back about whether or not you got it for two weeks now. While a follow-up or two is certainly expected and will help keep you top-of-mind, emailing the HR contact to check in each morning makes you seem needy and obnoxious. The mere exposure effect only works if you are adding a certain degree of value to the relationship, so be sure to strike a balance.

DO Keep an Open Mind.

Networking pays off in different ways at different times. That’s why approaching it from the mere exposure effect perspective is preferable to simply blasting out emails to your network as you begin your job search. Familiarity will allow others in your network to reach out to you with a question or favor to ask, making it easier for you to do the same for them when the time comes.

DON’T Get Discouraged.

Life happens. People are busier than ever, and as everyone knows, it can be all too easy to lose touch amidst the chaos of life. It happens. But taking the mere exposure approach to networking will, over time, leave you with a solid set of valuable contacts who you can call on to ask advice and favors. Most importantly, you’re bound to learn a thing or two about people and your industry along the way.

Using the concept of the mere exposure effect as your guide, you can reinvent the way you network, and most importantly, create truly valuable relationships that will skyrocket your career.

Understanding how the familiarity principle works in human interaction should help you to relax and feel confident that a relationship can grow out of repeated exposure and proximity. Follow these steps, and you’ll see a dramatic shift in how you approach networking on a professional and personal level, and how these interactions can reap big rewards.

Melody Wilding, LMSW is a psychology expert, coach, and therapist for entrepreneurs and young professionals. Her advice has been featured on Glamour.com, The Huffington Post, The Daily Muse, and more.

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The post Live in San Francisco? Don’t Miss These 10 Hot Networking Events appeared first on Brazen Life.

Networking is about friendship, true connection and building mutually beneficial relationships. (Click here to tweet this thought.) Whether you’re looking to expand in your current career or explore a new and exciting industry, it’s the people you meet who will lead your way.

Luckily, San Francisco is a hub of all things career, and not just tech. It’s a city that encourages you to always improve, to disconnect as a way to truly connect, and it’s a place that’s almost overwhelming in its options for how to spend your free time.

So why not kill all three birds with one stone? Here are 10 networking events in San Francisco that can help you accomplish all of the above.

1. Network after Work

This national business event company has more than 500,000 members in cities across the country. Their goal is to help professionals expand their network and create new opportunities. In San Francisco, their events happen at popular spots like roe, The Grand and Manor West.

2. Digital Detox

Network without networking. Digital Detox is about “creating balance in the digital age.” Their events include retreats, device-free drinks and analog zones at conferences. Or, dive in head first by attending one of their summer camps for adults at Camp Grounded.

3. Airbnb Tech Talks

Hosted every other Wednesday at 6pm, Airbnb offers talks for the tech folk in all of us. If you live in San Francisco and work on a computer, these events should be on your must-attend list. Past talks include “using technology to build a better food system” and “engineering lessons from famous projects.” There’s always something to learn here and it doesn’t hurt that the Airbnb offices are gorgeous.

4. Makeshift Society

If you’re intimidated by mingling in a room full of strangers over punch, head to Makeshift Society. This coworking clubhouse classes like DIY Public Relations, book launch parties, mixers and open office hours with their talented members. Makeshift is a great place to build a network as well as leaning on their many opportunities for peer learning and mentoring.

5. Impact Hub

Impact Hub is a global network with more than 7,000 members, but each location has deep community roots which not only offers shared workspace, but amazing events and programs. They really want you connect with other members. Their Berkeley location offers a bi-weekly Lunch and Learn, which covers topics like marketing and app development. Bring your own bag lunch and questions!

6. UX Book Club SF

The purpose of San Francisco’s UX Book Club is to “enhance the abilities and knowledge of user experience professionals” while building a local community. They host regular meetups where the authors of said UX books attend the talks, as well as senior managers at various companies across the city. These events are both an incredible networking experience, but one chock-full of new learnings.

7. Professional Women’s Network

There’s something incredibly supportive and encouraging about women’s only networking. PWN aims to encourage women women in business as employees, entrepreneurs, licensed professionals and small business owners. Their events include monthly luncheons, after work networking and Saturday morning coffees. You can attend up to three while you decide if membership is right for you.

8. General Assembly

This growing educational institution hosts a variety of events from happy hours to panel discussions to hackathons. They’re always well-attended and are a great way to meet the community and feel empowered to pursue the work you love.

9. StartOut

Nonprofit StartOut is dedicated to creating business leaders by fostering LGBT entrepreneurs. Their San Francisco events offer traditional networking mingling, speed networking and more structured demo days where you can learn about getting access to capital.

10. Content Strategy Meetup

This Meetup is always organizing jam-packed talks and events. If you’re in any way involved in the creation and delivery of content (from copyediting to content management), these guys meet monthly to share in their commitment to creating more effective online and interactive content. This group always has amazing speakers, like the content strategists at Pinterest and Code for America.

Marian Schembari is a blogger, traveler and all-around social media thug. She landed in San Francisco via New Zealand via London via New York, where she’s now the Marketing Manager at Thumbtack.

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The post Get Recruited: Upcoming Brazen Recruiting and Networking Events (May) appeared first on Brazen Life.

But did you know Brazen also partners with popular employers and universities around the country to put on virtual career fairs and networking events?

Our platform allows talented candidates to connect directly with recruiters, hiring managers and other decision-makers to see if there’s a match with a particular company or organization. Doesn’t that sound more civilized than applying to a standard job listing and never hearing anything back?

Many of our partners ask us to bring the best job candidates to these events, which means YOU have a chance to get recruited. This is your opportunity to take a step up in your industry and transition into your dream job.

Want an invite to our next event? Sign up for our newsletter, and we’ll keep you posted!

Get psyched about these upcoming events

This month, an impressive roster of employers, universities and organizations are hosting events on the Brazen platform. We’re excited to partner with Apple, TriNet, KPMG, Edward Jones, and many more impressive employers who are looking to chat one-on-one about open positions — as well as make hires.

On the university side, we’re working with Penn State, Carnegie Mellon University, Virginia Military Institute, UPenn, University of Iowa, and more to host networking events that help alumni and students make valuable connections.

Don’t you want to be in on this goodness?

Sign up for our newsletter to get on the invite list!

If you’re with a university, employer or other group, click here to host your own online networking event. We’ll be in touch right away!

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The post Get Recruited: Upcoming Brazen Recruiting and Networking Events (May) appeared first on Brazen Life.

The post 12 Networking Tips That Will Help You Make High-Quality Connections appeared first on Brazen Life.

Whether you’re a startup owner, a freelancer or another variety of entrepreneur, making — and maintaining — connections with others in your industry is an important key to success. These tips will help you do just that, even if you have the busiest of schedules (which, let’s be honest, you probably do). (Click here to tweet this list.)

Identify common mindsets

“Instead of trying to network with everybody and anybody, identify people who are like you and share the same mindset. Look for people who might be in the same age group or the same growth phase with their own companies. Don’t just limit yourself to connections within your own industry. Good connections within other industries are often the most beneficial.”

-Ziver Birg, Zivelo

Be yourself

“Start with being yourself, whatever that means to you: goofy, serious, quirky, you name it. The more real you can be, the more people will remember you. Next, be interested in what others are doing. If you can help them get what they want, you’re a lot more likely to form lasting relationships. Most deals aren’t made in the first few meetings. It’s about the long-term relationship. Connect people you believe could benefit from each other, and don’t hold back with what you can do or offer to help others.”

-Nathalie Lussier, Nathalie Lussier Media Inc.

Give of yourself

“I’ve had the fortune to hear Brad Feld speak a few times. He shares a consistent message: give of yourself without expecting anything in return. My experience is that this advice is spot-on. When you offer your help and time, you not only meet interesting people, but you also learn how to solve diverse problems. The side benefit is that by engaging with others on topics they are passionate about, you will help them be able to judge your personality and capabilities. These individuals will become part of your network and be more willing to make warm introductions to their contacts.”

-Aaron Schwartz, Modify Watches (Follow on Twitter @ModifyWatches)

Vet your meetings carefully

“Being a sophomore at Duke, I have had the fantastic opportunity of being connected to many people. I have learned quickly that just because I am young does not mean my time is not valuable. I understand that I of course have a lot to learn. That being said, I know that taking an hour out of my day is certainly easy enough to meet with someone that could be the next big someone. But it is essential to understand who the good meetings are and who maybe isn’t. I usually set up a call or communicate via email to chat a little to learn about their interest in meeting prior to actually meeting.”

-Bryan Silverman, InStall Media

Find a networking wingman

“For any networking event, it can be helpful to have a networking ‘wingman.’ Together, you can naturally draw others into your conversation. This is particularly true if your networking wingman is knowledgeable about an industry you are unfamiliar with. If nothing else, the event will provide you with an opportunity to get to know your networking wingman better.”

-Doug Bend, Bend Law Group, PC (Follow on Twitter @DougBend)

Have multiple touchpoints with your top 20 percent

“The adage ‘quality over quantity’ holds true when it comes to networking. Sure, LinkedIn, Twitter or SXSW allow you to cast a wide net and gather lots of new connections. But you need to have a top 20 percent that you can focus on and actually give value to. Try to get as many touchpoints with these people — a coffee at a conference, a handwritten thank you note, a personal email, a tweet. Multiple touchpoints are key.”

-John Meyer, Lemonly (Follow on Twitter @johntmeyer)

Work the puzzle

“I think of networking as fitting puzzle pieces together. When I meet or reconnect with someone who mentions a need (it may be a sales lead, a job opening they’re looking to fill or a recommendation for an auto shop), my neurons begin firing until I come up with one (or several) possible connections to make for him or her. I then ask if he or she would like an introduction to said person/people. If yes, I make it within no more than 24 hours. The key is to do what you promise in a timely manner.”

-Darrah Brustein, Network Under 40 / Finance Whiz Kids

Create a professional blog

“There are a lot of different opinions about how much time a hustling entrepreneur should spend networking. When it comes down to it, your time’s probably best spent either a) meeting with potential customers/users or b) building your product. A blog can anchor your infrequent face-to-face meetings with thought leadership and personality. It’s a very effective way to efficiently interact with fellow entrepreneurs and investors without burning a lot of time traveling or missing out on precious sleep.”

-Derek Shanahan, Playerize / SuperRewards

Follow Up

“It takes multiple interactions for most people to remember you after you’ve met the first time. I make a point of looking for natural ways to follow up — even emailing a link to an interesting article is enough to make yourself a little more memorable. The fact that it’s natural is important. You can’t immediately start selling to someone you just met (unless you want to be labeled as that annoying sales guy). Rather, you need to build a normal relationship that happens to provide an opportunity for both of you to benefit.”

-Thursday Bram, Hyper Modern Consulting (Follow on Twitter @ThursdayB)

Join the local chamber

“For starters, join your local chamber. We’ve had a tremendous amount of exposure as a result of being active in our local chamber. We did this early on, and it helped us connect with C-level execs really quickly. Book speaking gigs so you and your brand are exposed to a large audience. “

-Tom Cannon, BungoBox

Take time to make time

“Building a strong professional network takes time. I’ve found that the best tip for networking is to make a conscious effort to schedule it in my calendar. Every Monday morning for about 90 minutes I scan trades, blogs and my own LinkedIn contacts to look for recent job changes and promotions. Then, I take time to send congratulatory notes to everyone who’s made a move. When applicable, I invite them to go out for lunch or a drink to celebrate their advancement. It’s a great, easy way to reconnect, and a good time to ask that person to introduce me to someone else in their network.”

-Brittany Hodak, ZinePak

Present questions or challenges

“I’ve connected with a number of senior executives of companies far bigger than mine by simply explaining my vision and what I’m trying to build. Let them know you are impressed with their backgrounds and would love to pick their brains. Most successful executives would love to participate or help a company they believe has great potential and is likely to implement their ideas. It allows them to think creatively again. In short, the people you actually want to talk to will be energized by the opportunity to dig into your challenges if you present them the right way.”

-Chuck Cohn, Varsity Tutors

The Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC) is an invite-only organization comprised of the world’s most promising young entrepreneurs. In partnership with Citi, YEC recently launched StartupCollective, a free virtual mentorship program that helps millions of entrepreneurs start and grow businesses.

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The post 12 Networking Tips That Will Help You Make High-Quality Connections appeared first on Brazen Life.

The post How to Get Over Your Networking Shyness and Find That New Job appeared first on Brazen Life.

NETWORK! YOU NEED TO NETWORK!

And there’s good reason why people give you that advice. Experts estimate that anywhere from 60 to 80 percent of people find jobs through personal contacts.

But what if you don’t have a network with which to, well, network? Let’s start with the excuses reasons why you might not have a network to tap:

• You just graduated from college.
• You just moved to a new city and don’t know anyone yet.
• You’re changing industries.
• You don’t want the people you work with now to know you’re looking.
• You’re just not good at networking.

If you’re making any of these excuses, it’s time to get over it!

Take a new approach to networking

You’re a human being, right? You know other human beings, right? You have parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, old friends, new friends, current neighbors, past neighbors, former classmates, former teachers or professors, maybe a community or church group you belong to, the guys you play basketball (or softball or flag football) with, the girls in your book club, the people you chat with at the health club… And on and on.

And don’t even get me started on your social networks.

The average American knows about 600 people. And if those 600 people know another 600 each, that’s 360,000 people! If that’s not a big enough network for you to work with, you have too much time on your hands.

But sometimes people say, “Those people don’t know anyone in my industry. They can’t help me find a job.” The truth is, you have no idea who the people you know also know. (Click here to tweet this thought.) Or who they know who may also know someone else who could help you. That’s why “Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon” is such a fun game to play. But I digress.

In networking, the whole point is to cast your net broadly to see what leads, contacts and ideas you can reel in.

How to tap your “non-network” network

Here’s the real secret behind networking: The people in your network won’t find you a job. But what they can do is connect you to people who know other people. And those people may know just that person who has a job you’d be perfect for.

1. Make the biggest, broadest list of everybody you know

Your only two criteria for adding anyone to this list are:

• The person is breathing.
• The person will recognize either your name or the name of the person who connected you to them. (“We both lived on 3 Allen sophomore year,” or “I’m a friend of your sister Penelope.”)

2. Prioritize your list as follows:

• Extroverts who know a lot of people. (They’ll be “above-average” on  how many people they can connect you to.)
• People who “owe you one” because you’ve done them a favor or lent them assistance in the past. Now’s the time to collect on your debt.
• People who seem like they probably like helping people (or at least, would like to help you).

Believe it or not, it doesn’t matter whether they have any connection to the industry or job you’re interested in. If they do, that’s gravy. But it shouldn’t be your only reason for contacting someone in your network. Keep in mind you don’t know who else they know. Remember… 600 people.

3. Know what you need from them and how to ask for it

Now that you have your list categorized, it’s time to start reaching out. Here’s how the basic conversation should go: Start with, “I’m interested in (blank) job or industry.” Next, ask one or all of the following questions:

• Do you know anything about that industry or this type of position?
• Do you know anyone who works in it or a related one?
• Can you think of anyone you know who I should talk to? Would you connect me with them?

That’s it. Keep it simple. Remember, you’re not asking them to help you find a job. Honestly, that tends to make most people uncomfortable. You’re just trying to find out if they know anyone (or know someone who might know someone) who can give you some info or advice.

Some people say this approach to networking is like searching for a needle in a haystack. And sometimes it is. If you’ve got a big, robust professional network you’ve been building for years, then you don’t need this approach.

But if you don’t, you have a choice. You can either spend time searching for jobs online and sending your resume again and again to computers that won’t read it. Or you can find a few real, breathing human beings you already know — or someone who knows them — who can give you real info, advice and ultimately access to that perfect job.

So stop saying you don’t have a network. You do. Everybody has one. You just have to use it.

Sue Matson is partner with Executive Coaching firm rd&partners in Chicago, IL. Her clients enjoy her practical, straightforward advice and her ability to help them focus on what’s most important to their career success. Read more articles like this on her blog.

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The post How to Get Over Your Networking Shyness and Find That New Job appeared first on Brazen Life.

The post Work (or Want to Work) in Marketing and Communications? Join Us for This Free Networking Event appeared first on Brazen Life.

We’ve got an event for you!

On Thursday, April 17th, at noon EST, we’re hosting a FREE networking event for the Brazen community, with a focus on professionals who work in MARKETING and COMMUNICATIONS.

That means if you work in marketing and communications — or you want to work in marketing and communications — you should join us!

Click here to register.

Our community is full of ambitious young professionals — hustlers, creatives and entrepreneurs who understand the importance of having a job you love. We want to help you meet one another, so you can rely on the support of your peers as you navigate your own career. We’ve organized this networking event online and during your lunch hour, so you can attend whether you work for an employer or have your own business.

Most importantly, this will be FUN! Remember, Brazen Careerist originated as a social network, and we still believe relationships are the foundation of a successful career. As an added bonus, this is an opportunity to try out Brazen’s software, the same awesome platform we use for recruiting events.

How It Works

It couldn’t be easier to join this event. Register now, and we’ll send you a link to join us on Thursday, April 17th.

During the event, you’ll be paired with multiple participants from around the region, country and world for several rounds of seven-minute, text-based chats. We’ll even save those conversations for you so you can revisit them later. After the event, we encourage you to connect with any interesting people on your favorite social networks; that will help you turn your chat into a mutually-beneficial relationship.

It’s like online speed dating, minus the awkwardness.

Hope you’ll join us!

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The post Work (or Want to Work) in Marketing and Communications? Join Us for This Free Networking Event appeared first on Brazen Life.

The post Get Recruited: Upcoming Brazen Recruiting and Networking Events (April) appeared first on Brazen Life.

But did you know Brazen also partners with popular employers and universities around the country to put on virtual career fairs and networking events?

Our platform allows talented candidates to connect directly with recruiters, hiring managers and other decision-makers to see if there’s a match with a particular company or organization. Doesn’t that sound more civilized than applying to a standard job listing and never hearing anything back?

Many of our partners ask us to bring the best job candidates to these events, which means YOU have a chance to get recruited. This is your opportunity to take a step up in your industry and transition into your dream job.

Want an invite to our next event? Sign up for our newsletter, and we’ll keep you posted!

Get psyched about these upcoming events

This month, an impressive roster of employers, universities and organizations are hosting events on the Brazen platform. We’re excited to partner with GettingHired, LGS, DC Business Leadership Network, National Labor Exchange Military Career Fair, and many more impressive employers who are looking to chat one-on-one about open positions — as well as make hires.

On the university side, we’re working with Columbia Alumni Association, UPenn, Lehigh University, Oregon State, University of Kentucky Alumni Association, and more to host networking events that help alumni and students make valuable connections.

Don’t you want to be in on this goodness?

Sign up for our newsletter to get on the invite list!

If you’re with a university, employer or other group, click here to host your own online networking event. We’ll be in touch right away!

Get our best career advice delivered to your inbox. Sign up today!

The post Get Recruited: Upcoming Brazen Recruiting and Networking Events (April) appeared first on Brazen Life.

The post Work (or Want to Work) in Recruiting or HR? Join Us for This Free Networking Event appeared first on Brazen Life.

We’ve got an event for you!

On Thursday, March 20th, at noon EST, we’re hosting a FREE networking event for the Brazen community, with a focus on professionals who work in RECRUITING and HR.

That means if you work in recruiting or HR — or you want to work in recruiting or HR — you should join us!

Click here to register.

Our community is full of ambitious young professionals — hustlers, creatives and entrepreneurs who understand the importance of having a job you love. We want to help you meet one another, so you can rely on the support of your peers as you navigate your own career. We’ve organized this networking event online and during your lunch hour, so you can attend whether you work for an employer or have your own business.

Most importantly, this will be FUN! Remember, Brazen Careerist originated as a social network, and we still believe relationships are the foundation of a successful career. As an added bonus, this is an opportunity to try out Brazen’s software, the same awesome platform we use for recruiting events.

How It Works

It couldn’t be easier to join this event. Register now, and we’ll send you a link to join us on Thursday, March 20th.

During the event, you’ll be paired with multiple participants from around the region, country and world for several rounds of seven-minute, text-based chats. We’ll even save those conversations for you so you can revisit them later. After the event, we encourage you to connect with any interesting people on your favorite social networks; that will help you turn your chat into a mutually-beneficial relationship.

It’s like online speed dating, minus the awkwardness.

Hope you’ll join us!

Get our best career advice delivered to your inbox. Sign up today!

The post Work (or Want to Work) in Recruiting or HR? Join Us for This Free Networking Event appeared first on Brazen Life.

The post Networking in Los Angeles: 10 Events for Meeting New and Interesting People appeared first on Brazen Life.

Whether you’re new to Los Angeles and looking to establish yourself in the community, or a long-time resident with big career aspirations, meeting your fellow Angelenos and building relationships is crucial. And no better place to accomplish this than a meeting specifically organized and structured for professional connections: the networking event.

It’s no surprise that a metropolis like L.A. offers an abundance of fun, unique and enriching opportunities to mingle. From super-casual to super-professional — with artsy, nerdy, gutsy and more thrown into the mix — finding a get-together you’ll dig and benefit from is easy.

Here are 10 great events to consider. (Click here to tweet this list.)

1. NetParty

Socialites, unite! With a massive global membership of over 200,000, NetParty gatherings are well-attended and heavy on the entertainment factor. Rub elbows in swanky nightclubs, chic lounges and gorgeous mansions as you “combine business networking with social fun” at these fantastic congregations, featured in Forbes and U.S. News & World Report.

Membership is free and events are surprisingly affordable, and while the atmosphere is party-like, the focus is conversation — music is always kept to a no-shouting-required level.

2. Young Professionals in Energy LA

If you work in the energy industry, the Young Professionals in Energy LA group is a must-join. Highly organized leadership combines with highly engaged membership to create a remarkably positive member experience. YPE emphasizes professional development and advancement, aiming to produce an environment conducive to sharing knowledge and experiences and considering career opportunities.

Open to all energy professionals, membership is free, along with most events; the LA chapter hosts about one every two months at various locations.

3. Downtown LA Young Professionals Happy Hour and 4. DTLA Happy Hour Crew

Interested in exploring the city and making new friends while logging your networking hours? The Downtown LA Young Professionals Happy Hour and DTLA Happy Hour Crew Meetup groups are for you.

Go bowling, play billiards and hit up rooftop bars with other 20- and 30-somethings, many of whom work or live downtown. With over 1,000 young professionals in each group getting together almost monthly, you’re sure to make some interesting connections.

5. Philanthro Los Angeles

Here’s a deal for you: For (typically) $15 or less, attend hip and meaningful events like art shows, black light parties and pro-environment city clean-ups with the camp of over 300 volunteers at nonprofit Philanthro Los Angeles.

Made up of early-career adults set on supporting good causes, members seek to encourage their peers to get involved in philanthropic social and leadership volunteer activities by hosting these exceptional gatherings. Building relationships and doing good? That’s a bargain.

6. Writers With Drinks LA

There’s a lot to love about the Writers With Drinks LA community. Comprised of nearly 600 accomplished writers and literary professionals, members convene monthly for free social get-togethers, as well as “book panels, readings and discussions featuring award-winning writers in many genres including fiction, memoir, screenwriting, TV writing, journalism and playwriting.”

But the best part? The panels include free snacks and sangria.

7. Ambitionista

Wondering if you’ll fit in with the Ambitionista crowd? Here’s the equation: Female + 20-something + Ambitious  = Ambitionista.

And while the group name can sound fabulous at first read, these ladies mean business. As founder Mira Johnson writes in the group’s Meetup profile, “This is NOT a ‘fluffy’ spa party or wild and crazy nightlife meetup. We are serious about success and personal growth.” Membership is free, as are some events, which include friendly networking and support assemblies, as well as a monthly speaker series.

8. Westside Geeks & Nerds

Nerdy, geeky and/or dorky workers, LA has a group in which you can feel right at home: Westside Geeks & Nerds. Obsessed with a particular topic? Passionate about learning in general? A bit socially awkward, perhaps? Connect with your people and stimulate your brain at WGN’s monthly themed outings, held at art galleries, museums, game stores and other intellectual-friendly spots.

With game nights, book discussions, movie showings and more, bonding with the club’s 1,000+ members promises to be as engaging as it is beneficial.

9. Women Entrepreneurs Club of Los Angeles

Enjoy monthly talks on highly relevant topics in the female entrepreneur’s world, as well as relaxed periodic happy hours, when you join the Women Entrepreneurs Club of Los Angeles.

This group of close to 300 “dynamic, creative, educated and forward-thinking Los Angeles women” organizes regularly to share ideas and experiences, announce events and collaborate on projects. Membership includes admission to an exclusive social media group focused on strengthening offline relationships between like-minded professionals.

10. Downtown L.A. Toastmasters

No networking opportunities round-up would be complete without mention of the local Toastmasters chapter. Join a group of motivating L.A. professionals working together to enhance their individual communication and leadership skills every Friday at 12 pm at Southern California Gas Company.

There’s a $20 fee for new members, plus international dues of $36 every six months and reasonable club-level dues. The payback? Better public speaking and presentation skills, good quality contacts… and maybe even that promotion.

Cassie Nolan is a freelance writer and the blogger behind Alternative Badassery, where she covers career, health and writing topics. She also sometimes says cool stuff on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

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The post A Networking Trick That Could Help You Find Your Next Job appeared first on Brazen Life.

Working, but daydreaming of a better job?

What if you could just chat with a colleague, maybe at a conference, and hear the magic words, “Hey, we’d love it if you’d come work for us”? When you get into a spirited professional conversation, career magic happens. (Click here to tweet this thought.)

It’d be much easier if you already knew plenty of colleagues who could tell you if their workplace is awesome — or awful. And put in a good word for you. But you don’t know people at every company. Most of us don’t network as much as we should.

Your challenge is to get your foot in the door, get to know the company and get them to know you, without the knuckle-biting stress of an interview.

Here’s a trick few people have tried, simple as it sounds. But it works.

1. Find a colleague in a company, someone with a cool job at your level. If you’re a senior software engineer, for example, look for another senior software engineer.

2. Ferret out their email address, then cold-email them. Introduce yourself and give a link to an online profile or two; they’ll most likely answer. They enjoy chatting with other smart professionals. (That’s you, right?)

3. Set up a phone call and maybe grab a coffee. The two of you can talk about your profession and experiences on the job.

They’re your peers, not managers or HR people. You can trust them to tell it like it is.

The groundbreaking career book What Color is Your Parachute? suggested the unemployed should do informational interviews to ask experienced professionals about opportunities in the industry.

You, the employed professional, should do informational interviews from a position of strength. You have the skills employers need. Talking with you is a privilege.

You can chat with your colleague about the technical side of your job: “We’ve been diving deeper into JavaScript recently.” They can also tell you about their workplace: “There’s lots of adrenaline here, and it’s sometimes a bit draining. But the people are top-notch, and we never go beyond 40 hours in a week.”

Employers want these conversations; they’re sick of mass-spammed irrelevant resumes

Employers have started using a straightforward but underestimated recruiting trick: offering access to their top professionals to attract their peers. They want to make it easy to send those cold-emails.

This sort of friendly conversation goes beyond the usual dull interview questions to find ideal pairings. Will Critchlow, CEO of the digital marketing agency Distilled, says, “We love hiring people who are passionate about working for us specifically.”

And Critchlow isn’t worried engineers lack sales skills. “We find that the right people just want the unvarnished truth about what it’s like to work here,” he says.

Don’t be shy to contact an interesting company. The Internet startup Kloudless, of Berkley, CA, draws in candidates this way. CEO Eliot Sun says that cold-emailers love hearing about the corporate culture and end up choosing Kloudless over larger companies across the Bay.

Interesting colleagues are more effective in attracting top candidates than boring job ads

If you’re among the lucky few who are completely happy where you are, consider volunteering yourself as a company ambassador. If it’s done right, you’ll get a great opportunity to talk to smart people across the industry and bring the best ones on board.

Many companies already have some sort of ambassador program, but even if not, it’s simple.

Here are the steps:

1. Ask your manager to set up a small ad highlighting you at the company’s careers page, with your name, title, photo and online profiles like GitHub, LinkedIn or StackOverflow so other professionals want to talk to you.

2. Potential candidates send you a message, with a few of their own professional profiles, to prove they’re worth talking to.

3. Your manager or HR screens each contact. You’re busy, but you enjoy talking to smart, experienced professionals, and it’s their messages that’ll get through to you. About one to three of these contacts a week is ideal.

4. You answer briefly. If you and the incoming contact hit it off, you can do a phone call or lunch. And maybe, if it goes really well, refer them for a job interview.

This way is better for everyone. If you’re a potential candidate considering a new job, you go into discussions with the confidence that insiders already support you. If you’re an ambassador, you get to talk to some fascinating potential colleagues and create a rapport as you pass the good ones on for interviews. What could be better?

Josh Fox decided that peer-contact programs should be fast and simple for employers and software developers, so he created an easy way for employers to provide an ambassador program, based on FiveYearItch.com. If you’re an employer who’s considered the idea of an ambassador service, please be in touch.

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The post 4 Types of People You Should Add to Your LinkedIn Network appeared first on Brazen Life.

You’ve heard this well-worn axiom for career success countless times. But how often do you give thought to who those “who” really are?

During the course of my professional life, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to find a few individuals who started out as contacts, became my confidants and now function as career partners. My networking VIP is a wise and respected CEO of a private company. No matter the business decision or issue I’m facing, I know I can turn to him for insights.

While having successful and time-tested business pros to tap for advice is invaluable, it’s important to develop a deep and diverse network. Looking at some of the people who’ve helped me the most, here are four surprising individuals who might help you, too:

1. The outsider

It’s only natural you’d build the core of your network around people you have a lot in common with, whether it’s the job you perform, the company you work for, your industry or your location. The problem is that swimming in the same circle for too long can be hazardous to your professional growth and upward mobility.

Forge relationships with people who work in completely different roles or fields. While there’s comfort in connecting with like-minded people who have similar backgrounds, you’ll limit your exposure to new ideas, perspectives and career opportunities if you don’t reach beyond this group.

It’s smart to get involved with industry-specific associations, but joining general business organizations is also worthwhile. Consider going to training events on broad career topics, such as ethics, digital etiquette or work-life balance. Or attend networking get-togethers geared toward professionals in a related occupation. If you work at a big firm, volunteer for cross-departmental initiatives and get to know colleagues in all corners of the company.

Consider reaching out to non-coworkers you know (and trust) whose careers differ from yours. Examples might include neighbors, vendors, old classmates or your whip-smart cousin from Colorado. The point is to branch out. When working through the pros and cons of a difficult work-related decision, for instance, it’s beneficial to hear various viewpoints.

2. The networking philanthropist

Some networkers are stingy and protective. They’re far more interested in dropping names than facilitating introductions. Others view networking strictly as a numbers game, collecting as many connections as possible, no matter how tenuous they may be.

The networking philanthropist, on the other hand, methodically cultivates a smaller web of authentic relationships he can use to assist members of his circle. He makes time for you when you need help or a sounding board. He also passes along the names of people you should know, job leads and news articles of interest.

Learn from the networking philanthropist’s pay-it-forward approach and model his behavior. The more you do to aid other people’s careers, the more likely they are to reciprocate.

3. The caring critic

It’s great to have cheerleaders in your network who’ll celebrate your successes and share words of support when you face a career quandary. But it’s also smart to have someone in your corner who challenges you and tells it like it is, sans sugarcoating.

Full of frank feedback and tough questions, the caring critic pushes you to work through professional problems. While it might not be fun to get your resume picked apart or hear that your social media persona is hurting your career prospects, receiving some unvarnished straight talk can be instructive and motivating.

4. The up-and-comer

One of the most common networking mistakes is schmoozing solely with people who can help you today. What about tomorrow? Networking is like farming: plant seeds now so you can reap a harvest later. (Click here to tweet this thought.)

The up-and-comer is someone who isn’t in a position of power or influence at the moment, yet she’s clearly going places. Offering to be a go-to resource or mentor for a high-potential peer or an impressive recent graduate is a nice gesture that can be personally rewarding and prove to be a sound long-term investment in your own career.

The bottom line is that focusing all of your networking efforts on currying favor with perceived power players isn’t necessarily a recipe for success. It’s beneficial to connect with successful leaders, but don’t underestimate the importance of taking a balanced approach to networking, fostering and maintaining meaningful relationships with a wide array of talented people at all levels and stages of their careers.

Paul McDonald is Senior Executive Director for Robert Half (NYSE: RHI), which specializes in the placement of professionals in the accounting and finance, technology, legal, creative and administrative fields. He has advised thousands of job seekers and company leaders over the course of his nearly 30 years in recruiting.

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The post Networking in Houston: 8 Events You’ll Be Glad You Attended appeared first on Brazen Life.

Austin isn’t the only place to trade business cards in Texas. Houston offers plenty of opportunities to mix and mingle with its growing professional crowd.

So slap on a name tag and get ready to work the room at one of these events. (Click here to tweet this list.)

1. TYP Houston

Houston’s Texas Young Professionals chapter welcomes 20- to 40-somethings from every industry. This group offers professional development and community service opportunities alongside regularly scheduled socials. Crave a midday learning opportunity? Sign up for a monthly Marketplace Houston roundtable discussion, where lunch is included with admission.

2. Network After Work Houston

Grab a color-coded name tag on your way in, and you’ll find others from your industry in a flash. Bi-monthly networking nights provide a regular opportunity to meet other professionals while visiting new and noteworthy Houston hotspots. Grab your ticket online before the event and score a sweet discount on your entry fee.

3. AfriPRO Houston

From law and business to medicine and education, this nonprofit supports young professionals along with causes that boost the local and international African community. A regular schedule of traditional networking events is accented by more relaxed gatherings that involve trivia or a charitable cause.

4. NetParty Houston

Get ready for an adventure! NetParty events feature big crowds, swanky settings and unexpected twists. Grab a friend from a different industry and shake off the workday at events that feel more social than professional. Perhaps the best part is the promise that the tunes will never be too loud for conversation.

5. Lean Houston Startup Happy Hour

This group is serious about tech startups. Before trying the Houston Lean Startup Circle’s monthly presentation and discussion, try the Startup Happy Hour. There’s no cover, so you’ll be a regular in no time.

6. SLGT Coffee Club

Start your day with caffeine and conversation with Houston’s entrepreneurial crowd. The Support Local Grow Together Coffee Club meets monthly and welcomes business owners, investors and anyone who wants to support the local economy. If you own or work for a small business, don’t sleep in on this one.

7. American Marketing Association — Houston

Membership’s not required, and monthly happy hour networking nights offer free admission. If your work involves marketing, you’ll want to meet up with this group. If you make friends fast, consider membership for access to industry training sessions and members-only events.

8. Young Professionals in Energy

This worldwide group is specific to the energy industry, but there’s a nice variety of events to fit every Houston-area personality. Attend networking happy hours, evening events focusing on women in energy or sign up for a community service event. It’s hard to resist volunteering for events like a cleanup called the Trash Bash!

Lisa Rowan is a writer and editor in Washington, D.C. At networking events, she’s the one wearing at least three name tags, just for fun.

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The post Work (or Want to Work) for a Nonprofit? Join Us for This Free Networking Event appeared first on Brazen Life.

We’ve got an event for you!

On Thursday, February 20th, at noon EST, we’re hosting a FREE networking event for the Brazen community, with a focus on professionals who work at NONPROFITS and ASSOCIATIONS.

That means if you work for a nonprofit, or you want to work for a nonprofit, you should join us!

Click here to register.

Our community is full of ambitious young professionals — hustlers, creatives and entrepreneurs who understand the importance of having a job you love. We want to help you meet one another, so you can rely on the support of your peers as you navigate your own career. We’ve organized this networking event online and during your lunch hour, so you can attend whether you work for an employer or have your own business.

Most importantly, this will be FUN! Remember, Brazen Careerist originated as a social network, and we still believe relationships are the foundation of a successful career. As an added bonus, this is an opportunity to try out Brazen’s software, the same awesome platform we use for recruiting events.

How It Works

It couldn’t be easier to join this event. Register now, and we’ll send you a link to join us on Thursday, February 20th.

During the event, you’ll be paired with multiple participants from around the region, country and world for several rounds of seven-minute, text-based chats. We’ll even save those conversations for you so you can revisit them later. After the event, we encourage you to connect with any interesting people on your favorite social networks; that will help you turn your chat into a mutually-beneficial relationship.

It’s like online speed dating, minus the awkwardness.

Hope you’ll join us!

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The post Give a Professional Contact the Big F.U. (No, Not THAT F.U.) appeared first on Brazen Life.

It’s the one thing standing between you and a paycheck bump. This one little action will prove you have real cajones. You take a deep breath and commit.

You’re finally going to Follow Up.

Were you actually thinking this was about a rather overused vulgar statement? Actually, quite the contrary.

The best way to expand your career network and build long-term relationships with potential clients is to follow this tried-and-true follow-up technique. Here’s how:

1. Shoot new contacts a super-short friendly email

According to popular man on the Interwebs James Altucher, you can say something like, “Hey, it was great meeting you. Let’s do that again in a month or so.”

You don’t want their eyes to glaze over halfway through. Keep it short and sweet.

2. Actually give two cents about the person you’re contacting

Sure, it may seem like no big deal to send a simple email to Bob or Susie from Saturday’s young professional networking event. But why would you do that if you two have nothing in common and only exchanged five words — and one of those words was “appetizer”?

3. Be helpful by offering value and expect nothing in return

You never know if that business card in your back pocket can turn into a potential client, job or collaboration. So keep communicating, but don’t sound desperate. Give value first. That guy at Social Triggers, Derek Halpern, offers good tips on sharing valuable content to build your network and trust.

4. Check your pride at the door and try to connect others

If the value thing fails, you can always try connecting your contact to someone else who could benefit from their services. This is what some may refer to as entrepreneurial karma. It’s not a bad thing, and will come back to you ten-fold.

Networking well is supposed to be about the other person. (Click here to tweet this thought.) It’s not about you when it comes to getting what you want professionally. It’s about the person who’s handing you their business card.

And in that moment, you need to ask yourself the following questions:

• Will I follow up with this person in the next 24 hours?
• Do I really want to stay in touch with this person long-term?
• Can I offer this person something of value when I follow up?
• Do I know anyone who would love to meet this person, or vice versa?

There you have it. A simple, yet effective, four-step process for giving someone a proper F.U. — professionally, of course.

So the next time you grab that friendly person’s business card, ask yourself if you really want to follow up with them. And if you do, then just do it.

Diane Pauley is the PostGrad Coach. Always a people lover, she finally learned how to harness her art and do it for a living. She is now on a mission to help other Millennials do the same — build up their art and be their own boss full-time — at PostGradolescence.com.

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The post Get Recruited: Upcoming Brazen Recruiting and Networking Events (February) appeared first on Brazen Life.

But did you know Brazen also partners with popular employers and universities around the country to put on virtual career fairs and networking events?

Our platform allows talented candidates to connect directly with recruiters, hiring managers and other decision-makers to see if there’s a match with a particular company or organization. Doesn’t that sound more civilized than applying to a standard job listing and never hearing anything back?

Many of our partners ask us to bring the best job candidates to these events, which means YOU have a chance to get recruited. This is your opportunity to take a step up in your industry and transition into your dream job.

Want an invite to our next event? Sign up for our newsletter, and we’ll keep you posted!

Get psyched about these upcoming events

This month, an impressive roster of employers, universities and organizations are hosting events on the Brazen platform. We’re excited to partner with American Express, DICE Western, Software AG, Council on International Educational Exchange, MOAA/Corporate Gray and many more impressive employers who are looking to chat one-on-one about open positions — as well as make hires.

On the university side, we’re working with University of Nevada, DePaul, University of Iowa Alumni, Villanova, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Oregon University, Virginia Military Institute and more to host networking events that help alumni and students make valuable connections.

Don’t you want to be in on this goodness?

Sign up for our newsletter to get on the invite list!

If you’re with a university, employer or other group, click here to host your own online networking event. We’ll be in touch right away!

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The post Get Recruited: Upcoming Brazen Recruiting and Networking Events (February) appeared first on Brazen Life.

The post Why Networking Doesn’t Work (and What You Should Do Instead) appeared first on Brazen Life.

I say that because I believe it myself — I hate networking, and I’m bad at it. So I don’t do it. But that doesn’t stop me from meeting new people, in a business setting, who sometimes refer projects to my design firm.

Wait a minute… Isn’t that networking?

Not in my mind, and I’ll explain to you why. But first, a little story.

Beer and launching a new business

A while ago, I was out for a pint with a girl (we’ll call her Christy) who was looking to strike out on her own, into the legitimately terrifying world of freelance design. She had gotten my name from a friend in the industry, and wanted to pick my brain a bit about how we grew Paper Leaf from a two-person operation into (at the time of this writing) a five-person business whose revenue has doubled every year.

I absolutely love having these conversations, which happen every so often. I can talk business for days; I love hearing where people are coming from and what their plans are and seeing if I can help them out.

The beer doesn’t hurt, either.

Anyway, in this instance, Christy was an illustration-focused designer, aiming to build a client list in order to strike out on her own. However, she was having trouble finding clients and work, which is sort of required if you want to not live on the streets desperately using your Moleskin notebook as a blanket.

I mentioned to her a key point I always come back to in instances like these: go meet people and get involved in your local design/business community. The response from Christy was this:

I’ve been out trying to network at all sorts of events. I meet people, I give them my card, and I even follow up reminding them to contact me if they need any work. But I never get any work from them.

Seems like a totally logical thing, yeah? If you want business, you network. Networking means giving people your card and telling them what you do, right?

No, it doesn’t. It all comes back to a key misunderstanding of the term “networking.” Let me explain…

The problem with networking

Christy’s approach above wasn’t with ill intent or any of that. I used to do it, too. Her approach was just a little misguided, and it’s the problem many people who struggle with “networking” have.

The problem?

The general misunderstanding of “networking” as a selfish action.

I give someone my card. I follow up with them. I remind them that if they have work, they can contact me.

There’s a lot of “I” and “me” in those statements. Where’s the benefit to the person you’re meeting? Unless they have an immediate, unmet need for the services you provide–– which is a long shot — there’s likely little benefit to their connection with you.

How many of you approach a networking event (man, I hate that term) with that sort of mindset? “I’m going to meet people who I might be able to get some business from” or “There will be a lot of potential business opportunities at this event,” etc?

That mindset is wrong. It’s inherently selfish. That’s why your networking attempts are failing and fruitless.

Here’s how to fix it:

Stop networking and start helping

Stop thinking of your local business events as “networking opportunities” and start thinking of them as opportunities to help people. Be a giver, not a taker. Change your mindset from a selfish one to an unselfish one. It’ll come back around, trust me.

If you can provide a benefit or helping hand to someone, they’ll remember that down the road when they actually need your services. For example, who do you think the marketing manager will call when they need design services? Designer A, who gave them his card and talked about all the skills he has, or Designer B, who asked the marketing manager about their business and then followed up with a helpful article/lead/Web application that may be of interest to them?

My money’s on Designer B, all other things being equal. We refer a lot of business leads that aren’t good matches for us to other agencies and freelancers, and we send them to the people who helped us out in the past. They don’t go to the guy who wants to meet for coffee, then gives me an uninterrupted 20-minute-long sales pitch (yes, that’s happened).

So stop aiming to generate business. Aim to understand and help people. (Click here to tweet this thought.)

How to apply this mindset

Let’s bring our newfound mindset back to Christy and put it into practice.

Old Christy’s method went along like so: Gear up for “networking” — an opportunity to drum up some business. Approach, say, an owner of an online marketing firm. Shake hands, swap cards and talk about herself a bit. Then, a day or two later, follow up with an email along the lines of, “Don’t forget about me — I can design things! Pay me money to do that!”

New Christy’s method is more like this: Gear up for an opportunity to learn about other people’s interests and challenges — don’t even think of the word “networking.” Approach the owner of the online marketing firm — introduce herself, shake hands, ask for the owner’s card, then ask questions about their business and what they do. (It sort of goes without saying that you need to be genuinely interested, but I hope you are — there’s a lot of interesting stuff to learn out there.)

Then, in a day or two, she follows up with an email with something actually helpful to the online marketing owner’s business. Perhaps that’s an article on lead conversion optimization she stumbled upon; maybe it’s an ebook on managing employees her old boss swore by; maybe it’s a potential lead that the online marketing firm is a better fit for. She repeats this last step here and there, and importantly, she doesn’t have any expectations from her actions.

The key takeaways

Meet people and look for ways you can help them. Understand their business, their pain points and their challenges — keep them in mind. Then, when you come across a helpful article, ebook, application, referral or so forth, send it to them. Don’t expect anything back in return. Be genuine.

That’s why I don’t network. I try to meet and help people. If you genuinely do the same thing, the business will follow.

Trust me.

This post originally appeared on the author’s blog.

Jeff Archibald is co-founder of a design firm in Edmonton called Paper Leaf, an award-winning shop focused on brand identities, websites and interfaces. If he’s not learning, creating, speaking or herding cats, he’s partaking in one of his many other loves: coffee, typography, whiskey, cycling and the mountains.

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The post Why Networking Doesn’t Work (and What You Should Do Instead) appeared first on Brazen Life.

The post 8 Tips for Making Meaningful Connections at Virtual Networking Events and Online Career Fairs appeared first on Brazen Life.

Lucky for you, quality online events, including ones we run on the Brazen Careerist platform, are easy to navigate, even if you’re a first-time user. But you’ll still want to do certain things to maximize the short time you’ll have to chat with each employer or participant.

As one of the leaders in the online recruiting and networking space, we want to help participants walk away from online events feeling like you’ve met your goals, whether that’s to get your foot in the door at your dream company or connect with a fellow alum from your university.

Here’s what we find works best for our participants:

1. Dive right in when the chat begins

Don’t wait for the other person to begin the chat — introduce yourself right away! At most of our events, each text-based chat session lasts around eight minutes. Each of those minutes is an opportunity to strengthen the bond between you and the person on the other end, so be bold and start the conversation right away.

2. Prepare your intro ahead of time

Write a brief introduction for yourself before the event begins, one you can copy and paste at the beginning of each chat. Three sentences or so about you, your experience and your goals should do the trick. That will keep you from spending the first few minutes thinking about how to best introduce yourself, and help you put your best foot forward right from the beginning.

3. Plan a few key questions

Come up with several questions you can use to start the conversation. Keep in mind that open-ended questions tend to elicit the most insightful responses. For example, if you find yourself stuck for something to talk about, asking “why” often sparks interesting answers and conversations.

4. Bring your positive attitude

No one wants to hire or even be friends with someone who will bring negative energy into their life. Even though the person on the other end of the line can’t see you smile, they will be able to sense your attitude, and you want to come across as positive and optimistic. Don’t complain about your job or your boss; instead, frame those negatives as what you hope will be positives in your next position.

5. Do your research

Especially if you’re attending an online career fair (as opposed to a networking event), make sure you know which employers will be there and what skills they might look for. At our events, you can log in ahead of time, prioritize who you’ll want to chat with and research those organizations. While virtual career fairs tend to be more relaxed than in-person fairs, you’ll still want to make a great first impression and show you’ve done your research.

6. Avoid casual abbreviations

For text-based platforms like Brazen’s, you’ll type to communicate — but that doesn’t mean you should lean on abbreviations like LOL and ROFL. Put your most professional foot forward, just like you’d do in person, and you’ll be far more likely to hear from those hiring managers down the line. (Click here to Tweet this thought.)

7. Have your resume ready

You might not need your resume for a networking event, but if you connect with employers at a career fair, they’ll likely ask for a (virtual) copy. Update your resume before the event just like you’d do for a job interview, and have it on hand. Employers are always looking to hire people who come prepared, and this is one easy way to show that you care about working for them.

8. Follow up after the event

After the online event, be sure to connect with the people you met. One of the best places to keep that relationship alive is LinkedIn, where the other person will be able to learn more details about your background and easily get in touch down the road if an opportunities arises. We know how important this follow-up is to your networking experience, so Brazen’s platform makes it easy to connect after the event by saving conversations and contact details from each chat.

If you’re keen to join us for upcoming virtual events, sign up for our newsletter to get on the invite list!

Ryan Healy is COO and Co-Founder of Brazen Careerist.

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The post 8 Tips for Making Meaningful Connections at Virtual Networking Events and Online Career Fairs appeared first on Brazen Life.

The post Get Recruited: Upcoming Brazen Recruiting and Networking Events (January) appeared first on Brazen Life.

But did you know Brazen also partners with popular employers and universities around the country to put on virtual career fairs and networking events?

Our platform allows talented candidates to connect directly with recruiters, hiring managers and other decision-makers to see if there’s a match with a particular company or organization. Doesn’t that sound more civilized than applying to a standard job listing and never hearing anything back?

Many of our partners ask us to bring the best job candidates to these events, which means YOU have a chance to get recruited. This is your opportunity to take a step up in your industry and transition into your dream job.

Want an invite to our next event? Sign up for our newsletter, and we’ll keep you posted!

Get psyched about these upcoming events

This month, an impressive roster of employers, universities and organizations are hosting events on the Brazen platform. We’re excited to partner with LGS Innovation, Clipper Magazine, Cellular Sales, Deloitte, and many more impressive employers who are looking to chat one-on-one about open positions — as well as make hires.

On the university side, we’re working with Columbia Business School, Lehigh, Villanova, UPenn, Eastern Michigan University, Greenville Technical College, University of New Hampshire, and more to host networking events that help alumni and students make valuable connections.

Don’t you want to be in on this goodness?

Sign up for our newsletter to get on the invite list!

If you’re with a university, employer or other group, click here to host your own online networking event. We’ll be in touch right away!

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The post Top Business Leaders and Young Professionals on the Key to Networking Success appeared first on Brazen Life.

Which is why we asked some of today’s top entrepreneurs, thought leaders, speakers and bloggers what they consider the secret to networking success. Their answers were varied, thought-provoking, and great field notes for your next networking event, office party or even coffee run.

So get a pen and get ready to start jotting…

Ash Ambirge, Founder of The Middle Finger Project (@TMFProject)

Make the other person feel important. Ask them questions about themselves, and then actually LISTEN.

Corbett Barr, Creator of The Sparkline (@corbettbarr)

Always offer to help people in very specific ways using your best talents and be quick to approach people, before your little voice inside gives you a million reasons not to.

Jenny Blake, Founder of Life After College (@jenny_blake)

Build an online presence, whether it’s a blog, Tumblr or About.me page. You can even use Visualize.me to spruce up your LinkedIn profile. So much of networking these days happens online, and even when you do meet someone in person, it’s a great way for them to follow up and learn more about you. One of my favorite business cards that I got at a conference said just one line: “ThatWomanIMet.com.” It was brilliant! Totally sparked my curiosity. Then I went to the Web address and realized it was my good friend Monique Johnson.

Catherine Caine, Boss Lady of Cash & Joy (@CatherineCaine)

Often networking works out in a weird friend-of-a-cousin-of-your-dog-walker way, so feel free to cultivate people without a clear idea of the path to the money. Genuine interest and connection beat strategy any day. (Both is best, of course. But if you have to choose, go with connection.)

Arvind Devalia, Coach, Author, Speaker and Blogger at Make It Happen (@ArvindDevalia)

If you are meeting someone face-to-face, always look for ways of helping the person you are talking to. Give them your 100 percent focus and attention, and listen to what they are saying. Then look for ways of helping them with your ideas, some resources or connecting them with someone who could help them.

When networking online, the “secret” is the same — look for ways of contributing and helping others.

It may or may not come back to you directly, but the world will still be a better place through your contribution.

Scott Gerber, Founder of Young Entrepreneur Council (@scottgerber)

Always help others without an agenda. Be a super connector by regularly putting like-minded people in the same room or on the same email. It’s not about “building up favors” or “networking.” Honestly, its about being a good business person and understanding that good karma and word of mouth about your ability to connect others equals good long-term relationships.

Ryan Healy, Co-Founder and COO of Brazen Careerist, Inc. (@rjhealy)

Ask questions. People often don’t know how to network or what to say, and the truth is that everyone just wants to talk about themselves. So ask about their work, their lives and be genuinely interested in their answers. Then don’t forget to follow up with the people who you want to be connected with in the future.

Benny Hsu, Blogger and Appreneur at Get Busy Living (@benny_hsu)

Don’t talk about yourself too much. No one wants to meet someone who loves the sound of their own voice. Ask questions and genuinely listen. You’ll make many more friends by listening than by talking.

Craig Jarrow, Founder of Time Management Ninja (@TMNinja)

The simple secret to networking is to give. This confuses many, because they network to try and get things. Some of the biggest connections I have ever made started because I gave something first. And don’t underestimate that you have something to give, even to those you think are out of your reach.

Danielle LaPorte, Author, Business Strategist and Inspirational Speaker (@daniellelaporte)

Show up as yourself. So many people are dying inside because they’re not really showing up. So if you’re You — at the meeting, at the club, on the bus, in love — well, then that would make you automatically exceptional. (Not to mention freer, fulfilled and closer to self-actualization. And sexy. Of course.)

Jonathan Mead, Chief Troublemaker at Paid to Exist (@jonathanmead)

Be insanely interested in helping other people succeed and finding ways you can constantly add value to others’ lives.

J. Money, Founder of Rockstar Finance (@rockstarfinance)

Being nice. And/or funny — that usually helps

No matter how successful or not someone is, at the end of the day, we’re all PEOPLE. And those things that draw us closer to each other are uniformly the same — it just doesn’t appear so when mixed with business or reaching out. I once heard from someone to just always pretend you’re on the dance floor trying to get someone’s attention. What do you do? Make a little joke? Find some small thing you have in common? Be a nice guy? All this applies to connecting off the dance floor, too — only without the spilling of beer and loud music.

Bobby Ocampo, Director of Revolution (@ocampob)

You have to love it. If your friends are also in your work circles, that’s the perfect combination. Be mindful of your time, but it all comes down to hustle… especially when you’re first breaking into the scene.

Joan Otto, Editor of Man Vs. Debt (@manvsdebt)

Give the person you’re talking to your undivided attention. That doesn’t just mean don’t check your phone while you’re chatting. It means look at them, not the floor. It means listening while they’re speaking, not figuring out what you’re going to say next and missing their half of the conversation. People will remember that, and you’ll get a much deeper connection in a much shorter amount of time.

Andrea Owen, Founder of Your Kick-Ass Life Coaching (@andrea_owen)

Do what feels good to you, not what everyone says you should do. If you don’t like in-person networking events, don’t go. If you loathe social media, figure out what you can do that feels good energetically. I just don’t think forced energy will get you anywhere, so again, do what YOU want.

Srinivas Rao, Host/Founder of Blogcast FM (@skooloflife)

Give more than you take. Surround yourself with amazing people. Connect them to each other. Let the chips fall where they may.

Joel Runyon, Founder of Impossible HQ (@joelrunyon)

Find out what other people need help with and figure out ways to help them.

Jody Thompson, Co-Founder of CultureRX and The Results-Only Work Environment (@JodyROWE)

The secret is simple: Give more than you receive. Approach it with the attitude of “How can I help you?” with no thought of getting anything in return. Then watch your network grow. Also, build your network of trusted connections before you need them. Then when you do need them, they’ll be eager to help you.

Carol Tice, Owner of the Make a Living Writing Blog and The Freelance Writers Den Community (@TiceWrites)

It’s fun! Or it should be.

Meeting new, interesting people is really what we’re here on earth for. Growing your professional circle also makes our lives more rich and fulfilling. I know people have big fears about doing it, but really, try to relax and enjoy it! I’ve met fascinating people who’ve become great friends through networking, including on social media.

Keep trying different networking methods and events until you find the place where you enjoy hanging out and you get the sort of work leads you want.

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The post 4 Clever Ways to Connect with Powerful People appeared first on Brazen Life.

Of course. But they almost always appear out of reach. Unless your cousin went to college with Malcolm Gladwell or your dad spent his teens spinning records with Richard Branson, it may seem like there’s no way into their inner circles.

Some people try anyway, sending industry leaders “cold call” emails with blithely optimistic requests: Can I buy you a cup of coffee? Could I pick your brain for an hour? Maybe we can schedule lunch? Those messages get ignored, and for good reason: they’re insulting to any successful, busy person.

It’s not arrogance that prompts people to decline invitations; it’s the only way they can cope. No one has an hour, a half hour or even 10 minutes to spare on a stranger who doesn’t have the sense to lead with a value proposition. The real question is, what can you offer someone who’s better-known or more famous than you are? (Click here to Tweet this thought.)

Here are four suggestions for how to get noticed:

1. Interview them

You’ve heard a million times that in the Internet era, we’re all media companies and publishers. Leverage that. Asking to interview someone is a little-used, but highly effective, strategy in connecting with A-list leaders.

You’d be hard-pressed to find any top business executives who’d agree to a half-hour coffee to share career advice with a total stranger. But thanks to the democratization of media, it can be as valuable for them to speak with a blogger as it would a member of the mainstream media.

If you want the opportunity to ask targeted questions and learn from the best, start a blog or podcast, and you can rapidly build relationships and become known as a connector and curator.

2. Write about them

In the Internet era, you can often get the attention of industry leaders without even attempting direct contact. When I mentioned “Getting Things Done” guru David Allen in a casual aside in an article, he reached out to me directly with a thank you and follow-up Skype chat.

If you consistently retweet someone’s posts, comment on their blogs or mention them in your writing, they’re likely to take notice.

3. Do them a favor

It’s only human to feel impressed when someone makes a special effort for you. Everyone knows you should “give before you get,” but too few professionals realize that with a little ingenuity, they could be cultivating lifelong fans.

If you’re following an industry leader’s Twitter feed and they ask a question where you could help — restaurant recommendations, links to relevant research or the like — take the opportunity to respond. They’ll likely be appreciative.

Think through other ways you can offer value, too. I’ve learned powerful lessons from people like Zen Yinger, a North Carolina-based social media consultant who secured a major television interview for me when I was in town on my recent book tour — without my ever having met her in person. You can bet that made an impression.

4. Make yourself interesting

Sometimes the most important part of making a connection is the personal and professional development you’ve already done. Michael Ellsberg, author of The Education of Millionaires: It’s Not What You Think and It’s Not Too Late, has written about how he made important business contacts by sharing marketing advice, as he’d developed an expertise in copywriting and direct marketing. He writes:

If you know a lot about vintage wine, or gourmet cooking, or fine tequila, or tango dance, or travel in Latin America or Southeast Asia, or Buddhist meditation and philosophy… or some other interesting, cool, hip, unusual, sexy hobby or interest, it’s very likely you’ll be able to share your gift among people you want to connect with.

Successful professionals like meeting compelling new people. But in a noisy world, it’s nearly impossible to stand out. These four strategies can help you connect with the powerful people you want to meet.

Dorie Clark is a marketing strategist who teaches at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business. Learn more about her new book Reinventing You: Define Your Brand, Imagine Your Future (Harvard Business Review Press), visit her website and follow her on Twitter.

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The post A Fool-Proof Recipe for Nurturing Your Contacts Over the Holidays appeared first on Brazen Life.

And why not? Many companies continue interviewing and making hiring decisions during the holidays to hit the ground running in the quickly approaching new year.

So use this time wisely to further develop, nurture and leverage your professional contacts and personal connections. Here are six ways to keep yourself focused and capitalize on some timely opportunities:

Send holiday or New Year’s cards

You may think nothing of doing this for friends and family, but don’t forget to reach out to peers, former colleagues and alumni networks with whom you’ve stayed in touch over your career.

Keep the card professional in look and tone and include a personal comment where appropriate. This isn’t the place for shots of you enjoying a margarita on your summer beach vacation or a silly picture of yourself in a Santa hat with your dog. Nor is a holiday card the place to make “the ask” regarding a new job. It’s simply a friendly gesture that may spark someone to consider you for an opportunity or open the door to this discussion later.

Fill your calendar with peppermint latte meetings

The holidays can be a double-edged sword for job seekers. Some of your contacts will have more relaxed schedules, while others will be overwhelmed with work and family commitments. You probably fall somewhere in the middle of that spectrum. Be mildly persistent and meet with as many contacts as you can. If you’re given the “it’s too busy right now” holiday response, set a date on the calendar in January.

Volunteer your time

You’ll find many opportunities to support nonprofit organizations during the holidays. And while helping others is a goal in itself, this is also your chance to meet other professionals.

From an employer or hiring manager’s perspective, your heart for service and your initiative to dedicate your time during lulls in your schedule will be noticed. If you have specific skills, say in accounting or legal counsel, look for ways to provide valuable and timely year-end support to nonprofits. Volunteer assignments are also a relatively low-risk way to try out a new skill and expand your capabilities.

Use holiday parties to network (rather than hiding out in the corner)

Office and personal holiday parties are one of the best ways to nurture your contacts and make new ones. Not working for a company large enough to have their own party? Ask a connected friend to be their plus-one for their work party obligations.

Your industry’s professional association party is also a great place to meet people at all ends of the career spectrum and can provide ready access to more senior professionals who could become a mentor or boss one day. These parties are not the time to hand out your resume, but be prepared with business cards if the opportunity presents itself.

Keep things light and fitting with the season

Don’t focus too much on your job search at parties and networking meetings; instead, keep conversations casual and reflective of the occasion. The holiday subject itself is a great way to get to know someone on a more personal level and possibly find things in common outside of your careers. Ask about family traditions or favorite recipes for holiday meals. Make your interaction memorable by letting your personality shine and avoiding too much shop talk, but still come prepared with a short pitch on your career goals if asked.

Stay active and plan ahead

Don’t let the holidays be an easy excuse to put things on hold. Continue to post on your LinkedIn or Twitter feeds, keep up with emails and correspondence and make an effort to connect with contemporaries. Set aside time to reflect on everything you’ve accomplished over the past year and your goals for the upcoming one. Think about how you can be a better networker, colleague and employee. Write down your goals to keep yourself accountable throughout the year.

Once the season comes to a close, reach out to the contacts you made over the holidays via email or LinkedIn and set up a time to meet over coffee or lunch to further explore opportunities. The best gift you can give yourself is the confidence of knowing you made great strides in your job search and set yourself up in the best possible way to kick off the new year. Happy holidays!

T.C. Whittaker is president and CEO of 3P Staffing, a national staffing firm that specializes in placing information technology professionals for contract, contract-to-hire and direct hire placements. More information may be found at 3ptechnologystaffing.com or on LinkedIn.

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The post 6 Networking Tactics to Land a Job at a Startup appeared first on Brazen Life.

You’ve heard it before — networking is essential for almost any kind of job hunt — but it’s especially true for startups. Here’s why: when building a team, startup founders rely on their network to separate the signal from the noise:

Every time a promising startup posts a job, tens if not hundreds of applications flow in. Founders don’t have time to go through all of them, so they use their network as a filtering mechanism by starting with people that have come recommended. Candidates who’ve been endorsed by someone the founder knows get the first crack at the opportunity. — Scott Britton

If you’re ready to get hired at a startup, here are six networking tactics that’ll help you get the gig:

1. Make it personal

Networking events can be a great first step to getting inside an industry. But they can also be a huge waste of time, especially in Startup Land, where it’s difficult to tell who’s doing awesome work and who’s a wannabe entrepreneur.

Rather than spending two hours at an event speaking with a parade of random people, focus on connecting with a handful of contacts you know you can learn from. Do some research, pinpoint a few top candidates and reach out for a short informational interview.

Avoid the dine-and-dash syndrome. You’ve worked hard to make great contacts, so don’t drop off the face of the earth after one meeting. Keep up with your network so you aren’t the person who only reaches out when they need something. Every month, grab coffee with a few of your contacts to keep the connection strong.

2. Apply before the job gets posted

If a company you like doesn’t have a job posting, that doesn’t mean you should wait until they do. Shoot ‘em an email. Tell them why you’re a fan of their work and explain how you could fit into their company.

Being confident in knowing you are a great fit for a company and having the ability to pinpoint areas of opportunity you can fill before the company even posted a job is… well, ballsy. But it’s incredibly effective. Reach out to companies you like early, build relationships with the employees and create a connection that will allow you to have a leg up on the competition.  — Breena Fain

3. Think local

While some recruiters won’t admit it, it’s easier to be hired at a startup if you live in the area. That doesn’t mean you have to be in a startup hub like Silicon Valley, New York or Seattle. Places like Boulder, Cambridge and Washington, D.C. are among Entrepreneur’s top 10 cities for tech startups. You can find high-tech startups in every single state.

Plus, the more remote your location, the less competition you’ll face. So start local. And if you want to move to a new city, try to visit often and at least appear like you’re a local.

4. Throw your own party

Highly-targeted events can be beneficial for everyone involved. When Alison Johnston Rue, CEO and cofounder of InstaEDU, realized there weren’t any events specifically for education tech founders, she decided to make her own:

When we were first getting started, I wanted to get to know other edtech entrepreneurs better. I made a list of founders I knew and founders I would be interested in meeting and invited them all to a happy hour at our office. The entire event took about two hours to organize, and it helped me meet and get to know the exact people I wanted to connect with.

5. Be generous

In his book Linchpin, entrepreneur guru Seth Godin wrote an important networking truth: “It’s difficult to be generous when you’re hungry. Yet being generous keeps you from going hungry. Hence the conflict.”

If you’re only focused on what you can get from other people — a job lead, an interview, a connection — rather than what you can give them, you’ll find yourself in hot water. Networking is a two-way street. The more you can improve someone else’s life, the more likely they are to help you.

Stuck on how to be generous and provide value? Here are some ideas:

• Send over an article or video the person would genuinely find interesting.
• Offer to give feedback about a product or website.
• Promote their organization to your personal network.
• Make a relevant introduction.

6. Take action

Founders need people who can take action, make decisions and figure things out on the fly. You’ve got to have initiative, creativity and hustle.

To demonstrate your action bias, tackle independent projects. Whether it’s a blog, an event, a side hustle, an incredible social channel or an artistic venture, get out there and do something.

Interesting projects often generate interesting opportunities and connections. (Click here to Tweet this thought.) Plus, you’ll have something cool to work on while you hunt for your next gig.

What tactic would you add to the list? Tell us in the comments!

Annie Rose Favreau is a Seattle-based content strategist, digital marketer and startup problem solver. You can find her Twittering away at @A_Favreau.

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The post Get Recruited: Upcoming Brazen Recruiting and Networking Events (December) appeared first on Brazen Life.

But did you know Brazen also partners with popular employers and universities around the country to put on virtual career fairs and networking events?

Our platform allows talented candidates to connect directly with recruiters, hiring managers and other decision-makers to see if there’s a match with a particular company or organization. Doesn’t that sound more civilized than applying to a standard job listing and never hearing anything back?

Many of our partners ask us to bring the best job candidates to these events, which means YOU have a chance to get recruited. This is your opportunity to take a step up in your industry and transition into your dream job.

Want an invite to our next event? Sign up for our newsletter, and we’ll keep you posted!

Get psyched about these upcoming events

This month, an impressive roster of employers, universities and organizations are hosting events on the Brazen platform. We’re excited to partner with Verizon in sponsorship with The Wounded Warrior Project, Stonegate Mortgage, National Association of Colleges & Employers, Conference for Women MA and many more impressive employers who are looking to chat one-on-one about open positions — as well as make hires.

On the university side, we’re working with University of Nevada in sponsorship with Volkswagen, Penn Graduate School of Education Resume Review, George Washington University, Penn State Alumni Association, and more to host networking events that help alumni and students make valuable connections.

Don’t you want to be in on this goodness?

Sign up for our newsletter to get on the invite list!

Brazen Life is a lifestyle and career blog for ambitious young professionals. Hosted by Brazen Careerist, we offer edgy and fun ideas for navigating the changing world of work. Be Brazen!

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The post The Best Networking Tips to Capitalize on Any Situation appeared first on Brazen Life.

You may dread networking and try to avoid at it at all costs. Unfortunately for you, networking is still considered one of the top techniques not only to sell yourself, but also to land new opportunities, projects and jobs.

But there’s a key to networking success that many people don’t talk about: knowing how to conduct yourself in different situations. (Click here to Tweet this thought.)

While handing out business cards may work wonders for you at a designated networking event, the same strategy might not work in a different atmosphere. Is there a way to know what’s going to work and what’s going to fail?

Let’s look at a few common — and some not-so-common — networking scenarios and review what your plan of action should be in each situation.

1. Work events

Work events come in all shapes and sizes, from professional development courses to off-site meetings with colleagues. These events tend to be more formal and not a place where you should directly whip out your networking skills, mostly because there’s a specific purpose for the event.

How to play it: Although you may know most people at a work event, you can subtly network by bringing up recent accomplishments or hurdles you’ve jumped. This helps people in your internal network see where you shine, and where you can help them — or someone else — in the future.

2. Conferences

Conferences are a great way to meet those awesome connections who can help you expand your network. Sometimes the premise of a conference is entirely centered around networking. Other conferences are developed for you to learn more about your industry by listening to speakers, taking classes and meeting those with similar professional interests.

How to play it: This is one of those obvious networking situations where you’ll need lots of business cards, copies of your resume, portfolio items, etc. Since there will be a plethora of industry members, you never know who you’ll run into. It could also be a good idea to refresh your LinkedIn profile before the event so that once you connect with people you meet at the conference, they’ll see your most updated information.

3. Office parties

Events like the annual holiday party or your boss’s birthday don’t usually scream “networking.” Oftentimes, you may be too busy socializing or talking about your personal life to think about business. While these are still great conversation starters, office parties can be an awesome place to reiterate why you’re a rockstar.

How to play it: Put the alcohol down and get to know colleagues you don’t know too well, especially those in different departments. You don’t have to brag about your accomplishments, but you can weave in your expertise. Chances are, one day they may need your skills on a project. Be memorable and show what you can do for them.

4. Family events

You probably believe family events are the last place to whip out your resume and market yourself, but these events are a networking goldmine. Think about it. Your family wants you to do well in your career. It’s like preaching to the choir. You just have to know what songs to sing.

How to play it: While members of your family may not work in your industry, they may know someone who does. That’s why it’s advisable to speed network, or chat with as many people as possible at your annual family reunion about what you do. Hand out business cards if you need to. If one of their contacts needs someone with your skills, you’ll be the first person on their radar.

5. Running errands

Picture this: You’re at the grocery store when you see an influential member of your industry. You don’t want to throw business cards at them, but you do want to make a connection. How do you approach a power player without throwing your milk on the ground and seeming too desperate?

How to play it: Introduce yourself and relay why you admire them. Try to mention a recent article they wrote or compliment them on a recent accomplishment. Then, close quickly by asking if you can sit down with them or connect on a social network. This opens the door to future conversations while downplaying what could have been an awkward situation.

The ability to market yourself in any given situation is a skill that needs to be honed and practiced. You never know who you’ll bump into and how they could help you out in the future. Look at every situation as a chance to boost your network and provide a possible stepping stone for your career.

What do you think? How else can you market yourself in any given situation?

Lynn Dixon is the co-founder and COO of Hourly.com, an employment network that quickly matches people who are interested in flexible positions with the right opportunities. Connect with Lynn and Hourly on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

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The post How to Go from Reluctant Networker to Career Hustler appeared first on Brazen Life.

Ev-ev-ev-everyday I’m hustlin’

Everyday I’m hustlin’

Ev-ev-ev-everyday I’m hustlin’

Ev-ev-everyday I’m, everyday I’m, everyday I’m hustlin’

Everyday I’m hustlin’ hustlin’ hustlin’ hust-hustlin’ -Rick Ross

I’ve never thought of myself much as a hustler. I’ve always been an extremely hard worker, but being a hustler is different.

Up until now, it always had a bit of a negative connotation for me. A hustler is pushy, demanding and maybe a little shady. If you watch the spectacular trailer for the new film American Hustler, you’ll get my point. (Bradley Cooper’s hair alone is convincing.) However, recently I was called a hustler, and I realized it was actually a compliment.

I’m currently in the midst of establishing myself as a freelance writer, editor and content strategist. I’m talking to everyone I possibly can and promoting myself. I’m writing tons of emails, being persistent (remember, there’s a difference between being persistent and nagging), and I’m networking — or power networking, as I like to call it. (With power networking, you burn more calories.) I’m not a shy — or, rather, lazy —  networker anymore because I can’t be. My livelihood depends on it.

“Hustling” in the working world just means strategic self-promotion and constant networking, as well as looking for non-obvious opportunities. I’m not walking around with a cane and a hat throwing my cards at people, but I am trying to get more people to listen to me. And it’s actually working! Yes, I’ve had to eat more Ramen noodles than usual this month, but that’s OK. It makes me feel like I’m 24 again. Fun!

I’m taking my work ethic and channeling it into all these different things. It’s hard work, but also exciting. I’m getting to see a whole new side of myself. There are a lot of things I can’t control right now, but one thing I can control is how much I’m networking and promoting myself. I can take charge of that — and so can you.

So, here are my tips for being a hustler. Hustling 101, if you will.

1. Give everything you’ve got

It won’t work unless you’re putting everything you’ve got into it. It’s not going to be easy. It’s cliche, but no pain, no game.

2. Be fearless

I used to be the person who hated to write those emails once again asking if someone has read my stuff or could meet for coffee, but now I do it all the time — and most of the time, people thank me. I’ve been in the other seat, and it’s hard to answer those emails when you have a million other things to do.

I’ve found a second email is just enough of a push that people realize you’re seriously interested and excited. It’s not embarrassing. If they never email you back, then it’s their loss.

3. Network until the cows come home

As Sallie Krawcheck says, networking is the new career. (Click here to Tweet this thought.) You have to talk everybody because you never know how they can help you.

Last week at a Marie Claire event, Krawcheck, owner of 85 Broads, said, “We should embrace networking. It is the number one unwritten rule of succeeding in your career.” It’s almost a hundred percent more likely your next job is going to come from a loose business connection and not a friend, she said.

I’m a social person, but it takes me a little while to warm up. I don’t have time for that anymore. If you have this problem, too, take a sip of wine and bring a friend who can be your networking wingman, and get to it. It will get easier every time. Talk about how awkward you are. That’s one of my best ice breakers.

4. Love it

Hustling is work, but it’s really exciting. You never know who you’re going to meet or what opportunity may present itself. Right now, literally every day something happens that I couldn’t have predicted. I’m introduced to another person or made aware of a company or job I didn’t even know existed.

Embrace it! That’s the only way you’ll thrive. Remember, “Good things happen to those who hustle.”

Meredith Lepore is the former editor of the women’s career site The Grindstone. Before that, she was on staff at Wall Street Letter and Business Insider and was a contributing writer for LearnVest. She earned her Masters in Magazine, Newspaper and Online Journalism from the Newhouse School at Syracuse University after graduating with a degree in Brain and Cognitive Science from the University of Rochester. Meredith resides in New York full-time and enjoys reading, jogging, shopping and playing with her puppy, Otis.

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The post How to Go from Reluctant Networker to Career Hustler appeared first on Brazen Life.

The post Get Recruited: Upcoming Brazen Recruiting and Networking Events (November) appeared first on Brazen Life.

But did you know Brazen also partners with popular employers and universities around the country to put on virtual career fairs and networking events?

Our platform allows talented candidates to connect directly with recruiters, hiring managers and other decision-makers to see if there’s a match with a particular company or organization. Doesn’t that sound more civilized than applying to a standard job listing and never hearing anything back?

Many of our partners ask us to bring the best job candidates to these events, which means YOU have a chance to get recruited. This is your opportunity to take a step up in your industry and transition into your dream job.

Want an invite to our next event? Sign up for our newsletter, and we’ll keep you posted!

Get psyched about these upcoming events

This month, an impressive roster of employers, universities and organizations are hosting events on the Brazen platform. We’re excited to partner with Freddie Mac, American Physical Therapy Association, Dice, Corporate Gray/MOAA, Cellular Sales, Corporate Executive Board and many more impressive employers who are looking to chat one-on-one about open positions — as well as make hires.

On the university side, we’re working with Georgetown, Columbia University, University of Pennsylvania, Temple University, the University of Alabama Huntsville, and more to host networking events that help alumni and students make valuable connections.

Don’t you want to be in on this goodness?

Sign up for our newsletter to get on the invite list!

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The post How to Network for a New Job While Still Employed appeared first on Brazen Life.

So, what’s your escape plan? How can you get out there, network and look for new opportunities without your employer finding out?

Make networking something you do not just during the bad times, but during the good times as well. When you’re known as a networker, it’s perfectly normal for your boss to see you eating lunch with strangers, going to meetings for professional groups and joining organizations that further your career. It’s also normal to see you volunteer time for causes you support. Some of the best networking takes place among like-minded people.

The more you reach out to others, the more people you’ll connect with and know. “Relationship before task” is good advice that I got while pursuing my master’s degree. It means that first you form relationships, and then you ask for favors.

Too many people wait until they’re desperate for a new job, then go out to network while coming from a very needy place. Neediness is a turn-off, and potential employers can smell it a mile away. Offer a favor before you ask for one. And always be ethical — no taking company material for a competitor in order to gain ground.

Here are three ways to get your network started:

1. Block out some time

How much time are you willing to devote to networking? Is lunchtime networking available to you, or evenings only? Are breakfast meetings an option? How many days a week?

Remember, this is a long-term plan. You may start out networking every night of the week, but it’s not sustainable over time — not without relationships or other areas of your life suffering. It can also be expensive. How much time and money are you willing to spend?

2. Choose your method

Do you prefer face-to-face networking or online networking through social media? Are you ready to go to meetings alone? How many people can you stand in a room before it makes you crazy?

I prefer to connect through social media like LinkedIn and then set up a time to meet. I also meet people initially at networking functions and reach out afterward for coffee. If you can’t do face-to-face meetings, try Skype, FaceTime, Tango or Google Hangouts. It’s important to make eye contact and read body language, which you can’t do via email.

There is a methodology to writing professional emails and choosing your appearance and background on video. Understand that each and every step you take may be remembered, and you’ll want that first impression to be a great one.

3. Find your tribe

Who do you want to connect with? Think about the kind of people you’d like to have as coworkers. Where do they hang out? Are they at industry conferences and groups, or do they do volunteer work? Are they in your master’s program? Can you reach out to someone via LinkedIn, Twitter or Facebook? What about “accidental networking,” which can come from meeting someone at an unexpected place like the grocery store, gym or a hiking group?

From there, just start networking! By making it an everyday occurrence, you keep your reputation and skills sharp. It becomes a way of life. And then, when that itch creeps in, you’ve already got an active network that’s there for support and guidance. Networking is funny—it’s a web, not a straight line. Often the connections come from the oddest places.

One last thing…

Karma is a b***, and you get what you give. Always, always be professional, ethical and on the top of your game.

Whether you realize it or not, people are always watching and judging. Every interaction is a potential job interview. The best way to get that call for a great new position is to be the first person someone thinks of before they post that opening.

Now, go get ‘em!

Laurie D. Battaglia is a career and leadership coach and Co-Owner of Living the Dream Coaches, LLC in Scottsdale, AZ. She coaches high-achieving women and men who want more out of life, work and relationships. Laurie is a blogger, speaker, consultant and leader. She writes for various online blogs and has been quoted on career and workplace issues in national and international publications. Find out more about Laurie and her company here or like them on Facebook.

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The post Fun Brazen Event: Use Your Lunch Hour to Network Online with Your Peers appeared first on Brazen Life.

We’ve got an event for you! On Thursday, Nov. 14 at noon EST, we’re hosting a FREE networking event for the Brazen community.

Click here to register.

Our community is full of ambitious young professionals — hustlers, creatives and entrepreneurs who understand the importance of having a job you love. We want to help you meet one another, so you can rely on the support of your peers as you navigate your own career. We’ve organized this networking event online and during your lunch hour, so you can attend whether you work for an employer or have your own business.

Most importantly, this will be FUN! Remember, Brazen Careerist originated as a social network, and we still believe relationships are the foundation of a successful career. As an added bonus, this is an opportunity to try out Brazen’s software, the same awesome platform we use for recruiting events.

How It Works

It couldn’t be easier to join this event. Register now, and we’ll send you a link to join us on Thursday, Nov. 14.

During the event, you’ll be paired with multiple participants from around the region, country and world for several rounds of eight-minute, text-based chats. We’ll even save those conversations for you so you can revisit them later. After the event, we encourage you to connect with any interesting people on your favorite social networks; that will help you turn your chat into a mutually-beneficial relationship.

It’s like online speed dating, minus the awkwardness.

If a lot of Brazenites participate, we might even consider doing this on a regular basis. We’re all about helping YOU build your network!

Hope you’ll join us!

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The post Why the Informational Interview Should Be Your Favorite Job-Hunting Tactic appeared first on Brazen Life.

A successful day is it making it through applying to 70 jobs you found online, from construction work to being an extra in a movie to participating in lab experiments meant to measure your brain wave activity. Whatever gives you a job.

This tactic works, but only about five percent of the time. Unfortunately, you’ve heard enough stories of people getting hired this way to make you believe it can happen to you, too. And it can — but that’s the worst part, because it becomes your primary job hunting tactic.

The alternative, “networking,” is an evil, awkward, uncomfortable tactic that involves handing your business cards to every working professional you know, rudely begging for a job while wearing your only good shirt. But you can’t do that. You don’t have any business cards, your one good shirt is wrinkled and you don’t know the first thing about approaching a professional to ask for a job.

It’s time for a change

Stop applying for every job you can find online. It’s time to start networking and give yourself a fighting chance at a full-time job you won’t regret applying to after your third day.

Let’s talk about informational interviews. An informational interview is a meeting between two people, one who’s a professional working in a certain field or industry and one who’s looking to learn more about that industry and get their foot in the door.

Note: this is not a job interview. It’s better in a lot of ways. (Click here to Tweet this thought.)

A successful informational interview will provide you with insider insight about the industry you’re passionate about. Meeting up with a professional screenwriter will give you the opportunity to discover information you can’t find anywhere else if you want to be a screenwriter.

Google can only go so far

To learn as much as you can from an informational interview, here are five questions to come prepared with:

1. What is your day-to-day like? What does your average workday consist of?
2. What advice would you give someone looking to get their foot in the door of the ________ industry? (Fill in the blank.)
3. What are common entry-level jobs in the ______ industry?
4. What are the next steps you’d recommend for someone like me?
5. Do you know of any jobs available in the industry at the moment?

That last one is for the ballsy individuals (hint: they’re probably going to get a job faster than others).

More importantly, an informational interview gives you a professional connection in an industry you’re passionate about. If the interview goes well, make that person a professional connection who likes you.

This will mean they’re a lot more likely to refer you to other working professionals in their industry, and they might even suggest your name when they hear about the multitude of jobs in their industry that never get posted online. Bingo.

How to set up an informational interview

“That’s all fine and dandy,” you may say, “but how in the world am I supposed to set one up? I don’t know anybody! If I did, I’d probably have a job right now or something.”

You’re right, you would. But that’s OK.

Here’s what you do. Go on LinkedIn to your college’s alumni database. (You don’t need a LinkedIn account, but you should get one if you want a full-time job.) Find someone who works in an industry you want to be a part of, and email them something like this:

Hello Mr. Super Professional,

My name is Anthony. I found you through SDSU’s alumni database on LinkedIn. I saw that you’ve worked at ____, ____ and ____. Since I graduated in 2012, I’ve become very passionate about the _____ industry.

I’d love to get your expert opinion on some questions I have about the industry. Could I please take you out to coffee sometime for about 30 minutes and ask you some questions about the _____ industry?

They’re probably going to say yes. Know why? Because people love talking about themselves, and everyone wants to help college graduates because they’re the cute, fluffy puppies of society. We can’t help it.

Do this a lot. I’m your average college graduate, and I’ve done about six informational interviews in the past few months. I have another one on Tuesday. They’re awesome. So far, I’ve received:

• A job application for an incredible position not advertised anywhere.
• A full-time mentor who wants to meet up every few weeks to help me out.
• A ton of information about content writing and editing, an industry I’m passionate about.
• Countless referrals to other professionals in the writing/editing industry .

The list goes on.

Sure, I apply to the jobs LinkedIn sends me and even to a Monster or Craigslist job or two, but informational interviews are taking me places.

You can jump on board, too. Stop applying for every job you’ve ever heard about and start getting ahead in your career. Informational interviews are the smart man’s job hunting tactic.

You’re smart, right?

Anthony Moore discusses post-college awesomeness on his website, stuffgradslike.com, and on his Twitter. He’s not much different than you: roguishly attractive, dashingly sophisticated and a lover of fine eateries like Wendy’s and Domino’s.

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The post Simple Tricks for Building Relationships That Will Benefit Your Career appeared first on Brazen Life.

Top performers know that if they lost their job on Friday, they could make a few phone calls, send a few emails and have a job offer by Monday. -Ramit Sethi

Why?

Because they build relationships and grow their networks by engaging with people.

It’s no surprise that Dale Carnegie’s How to Win Friends and Influence People has sold over 15 million copies worldwide. Becoming a Picasso in the art of connecting with your fellow human beings is the golden ticket for the fast track to success. (Click here to Tweet this idea.)

These five techniques will help you thrive in any social situation and make people love being around you:

1. The buddy system

From the Marines to the elementary school classroom, the buddy system means when you go to the toilet, someone goes with you. Don’t do that at work, but the principle still applies.

Find someone in your company you want to build a relationship with, and pick one activity to do with them. While you’re both engaged in the activity, ask them questions that allow you to gain a deeper understanding of their thoughts about the company, your team, the new project — anything. Ask them open-ended questions such as, “What do you think about the project?” or “How do you think we can make improvements in this proposal?”

Most people are rarely given the opportunity to be heard on a deeper level and will appreciate you for doing so.

2. Waking up the elephant in the room

If you know something might be a potential obstacle or objection for someone, mention it up front. Get it out of the way, because everyone knows it’s there anyway.

Let’s say you just got out of college and still look like you’re 15 years old. The next time you speak to a group of salty old veterans in your company, open by acknowledging you look young enough to be their grandchild. Then explain why it’s not going to a problem and keep moving on with the conversation.

They’ll respect your candor and become more engaged in hearing what you have to say.

3. The copycat

Remember that annoying game kids play where they copy everything you do? Do that. Well, with a little more subtlety.

Copying someone’s behavior, language, tonality, even their emotions will improve your relationship with them faster than buying them an all-expenses-paid trip to the Bahamas.

We have what neuroscientists call mirror neurons. Watching someone else leap off a cliff activates the same parts of your brain as if you took the leap yourself. This applies to emotions as well.

If your boss talks fast, you talk fast. If he crosses one leg over the other, you do the same. If he expresses joy, plaster a monster-sized grin onto your face. He’ll connect with you on a subconscious level, without knowing why he’s taken to you.

4. The transference technique

What do you do with employees who aren’t putting in their share of the workload?

Most bosses confront them, which only puts them on the defensive and sends them away upset. Want it to go differently?

Before you meet with the employee, find three reasons why they might be upset with you. Dig deep if you must.

Start the conversation by taking responsibility for the way things have gone. Confirm if that’s what’s bothering them or if it’s something else. Then apologize and promise to work on improving things on your end. They won’t expect this. Shifting the blame onto yourself will drop their guard.

To create long-lasting relationships, act in the manner you want the other person to behave, and you’ll transfer that emotion or behavior onto them.

5. The sentence finisher

You’re reading this post because you want to learn how to…

See what happened there? You felt compelled to finish the statement, right?

Sometimes questions can come off as probing or forceful, or they may make a person feel like they’re on the spot. A softer approach is to lead with a statement and invite the other person to finish it.

In a meeting with a boss, you could say something like, “To make this new project a success, you want…” Use a hand gesture to let them know they need to finish the sentence or just pause and wait for them to do so.

They’ll appreciate you for giving them the opportunity to express themselves.

What are some strategies you’ve used to become a master at cultivating relationships?

Akshay Nanavati is Marine Corps veteran turned productivity and business consultant. Check out his site to learn more about how to use neuroscience and psychology to live the millionaire lifestyle.

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The post Easy Online Networking Tactics That Really Work appeared first on Brazen Life.

Building networking relationships can be difficult, especially if you’re focused too heavily on how you will benefit. A more effective and natural move is to take on the role of helper and simply share your knowledge freely. It’s a no-brainer; you can speak about something you have mastery over and you aren’t asking for anything.

When you let go of the old-school exchange of cards and sales schmooze, networking becomes a whole lot less scary, especially when you move your networking online. (Click here to Tweet this idea)

Follow these three tips to network authentically and build lasting relationships online:

1. Find relevant LinkedIn and Facebook groups

Groups are where the action is on both LinkedIn and Facebook. Join relevant groups to connect with your peers and ideal customers. Listen in for a bit, get a feel for the group, then use your expertise to answer questions and get to know other group members.

Set aside time each day or week to dedicate to group activity, and you’ll quickly build a reputation as a go-to person on a given topic. You’ll build personal and professional relationships that keep you top-of-mind the next time someone needs to hire or is looking for a consultant.

Over time, make a point to seek out new groups to widen your circles and let go of those that are less relevant. Avoid showing up only when you have something to ask of the group, as you’ll quickly be pegged as “that” person who’s only concerned about what’s in it for them. Not cool.

2. Forge connections in the blogosphere

If you blog, you know how solitary blogging can be as you pour yourself into writing content, sharing it and waiting for responses. Reading blogs in your industry and actively commenting where appropriate is a great way to forge connections. Well thought out, genuine comments can get you noticed by bloggers.

Repeat commenters become a part of that person’s tribe and can lead to bigger opportunities as they get to know and trust you. Create a list of blogs to follow, including both bigger names and up-and-comers. Get to know them and leave comments when you have something to add to the dialogue.

Don’t go crazy and comment on everything — that can make you seem like a blog stalker. Also, make a point to add these bloggers to your social networks such as Google+ and Twitter.

3. Go beyond the retweet to get noticed

It’s no secret that getting active on social platforms like Twitter and Google+ is a low-risk way to engage with people you want in your network. But you can’t hop on and retweet a couple things, then hope you’ll land a spot as their business BFF.

For this strategy to be effective, you need to have a presence on the platform, with a fully built-out profile. Imagine you engage with someone you want to get to know better, and they visit your profile to learn more about you — but your profile is blank. Would you do that on an online dating site? Then don’t do it on Twitter, Google+ or any other social network.

Take time to select people to follow, fine-tune your profile, tweet or “+” your own content and get active commenting and sharing. Be yourself, add value and be consistent. If you need to, focus on one platform at first instead of dividing your focus across many.

Networking doesn’t have to be scary. It’s easy and enjoyable when you focus on your zone of genius and are authentic. Pick one of these ways to get yourself out there today and start building your network based on value and expertise, not schmooze.

Maggie Patterson is a PR strategist who helps entrepreneurs use DIY PR to grow their business. You can connect with her and learn more about DIY PR on her website and on Google+.

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The post How Mastering Advanced Social Media Search Will Change Your Life appeared first on Brazen Life.

To become a social media sleuth, don’t shy away from using advanced search tools offered by social media giants Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. It’s the best way to dodge irrelevant results and cut straight to the information that matters most — especially for your career.

Advanced Facebook navigation tips

At first glance, Facebook’s latest search tool may not look a whole lot different from its original platform. But with a closer look, you’ll discover more avenues to navigate for targeted Facebook information and fellow users.

Facebook’s graph search has been hailed as a new asset for online journalists because they can cut straight to the photo sources they want or even find potential interviewees. For example, with wider search capabilities, a writer can search for photos taken in August 2013 or recent celebrity photo uploads. If you’re writing a time-sensitive blog post about the Yosemite fires, you can find your image sources by narrowing your search to “photos of Yosemite wildfire.”

Web entrepreneurs can also use Facebook’s graph to search for professionals who work at certain companies or people interested in WordPress development.

This way, you don’t have to search in circles for hours and hope to stumble upon a user who fits your criteria. You can also search for people based on where they used to live or can sleuth around your friends’ lists by searching “friends of friends who…”

Twitter search’s hidden world

Twitter’s advanced search tools are often overlooked because of their quick, easy-as-pie text search. It works more like a basic Google search, which is familiar and comfortable to use. But you’re probably missing out on discovering even more tweets and potential followers relevant to your niche or business goals.

One of Twitter’s most valuable search features is the ability to save your search for later. This is especially useful if you’re a regular Twitter sleuth. It’s all too easy to forget about important searches when you’re not writing things down, so this is an easy-breezy method for taking note of your Twitter search activity.

If you prefer a more syntax-based search tool, you’re a perfect fit for Twitter’s advanced search operators. While they essentially works like Twitter’s standard advanced search tool, users can manually input their own search characters with minus and plus signs, as well as “not,” “near” and other terms.

Harnessing LinkedIn search tools

LinkedIn is one of the top five major social media sites. It’s proven to be a great connection tool for job seekers, up-and-coming startups, new clients and corporate headhunters. And it’s advantageous for any new entrepreneur to learn the ins and outs of LinkedIn search.

Within LinkedIn’s specialized groups, you have access to a polling feature that allows you to view questions relevant to your niche and find the Linkedin users who answered them.

To check out other existing polls within the group, go to the “search” tab and click “all polls” on the left sidebar or sort and filter according to what you’re looking for.

You can also use advanced search to expand your reach to your customers’ clients. By reaching out to those second-degree connections, you have the potential to generate more interest in your business, especially when those connections are communicating their enthusiasm to your clientele.

Advanced search provides an opportunity to build stronger win-win business relationships with both present and potential customers. (Click here to tweet this thought.)

Congrats, you’re now an expert on using Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn advanced search! Now it’s time to put your knowledge into action. After you do, come back here and leave a comment sharing your favorite use of advanced search.

Megan Hargroder works with startups to create social media strategies that work and empowers others to build an online buzz around their badass brands. You can download her Social Media Strategy Playbook ebook free when you sign up for her tips list at conversations.be.

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The post The 3 Types of People You Need In Your Network (Podcast) appeared first on Brazen Life.

Highlights in this episode:

• Why these three people are so vital to your career growth.
• How to approach and foster these relationships.
• Fashion, follow-up and branding tips to land the perfect job.

Enjoy the podcast, and for more info on Nando & Charlene, check out Interviewing U.

**This podcast has been produced in conjunction with Brazen Careerist.

Nando Rodriguez is the Head of Employment Branding and Senior Social Media Recruiter at the iconic advertising agency Oglvy & Mather, while Charlene Narcelles is a Customer Education Specialist at LinkedIn. Both work together as Brand Specialists to help job seekers brand themselves to land the job they deserve at InterviewingU.com.

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The post The 3 Types of People You Need In Your Network (Podcast) appeared first on Brazen Life.

The post Career Success: Just 50 Cups of Coffee Away? appeared first on Brazen Life.

That contact list you’ve gathered is full of potential mentors and co-conspirators who can help you hone your thoughts on everything from launching a new venture to moving to a new city. By sitting down with them to discuss your thoughts, you can get insights and work out dilemmas that will really get you on the right path.

The trick is in knowing how to tap into this resources. One author suggests you do it one cup of coffee at a time.

In an article on Inc., Peter Thomson recommends you have coffee with no less than 50 — count ’em, 50 — people to discuss your big idea before taking action on it.

As Thomson writes:

Each time I make a significant change in my life, I have coffee with 50 people to get their views on my plans.

If you’re raising investment for a startup, changing careers, or moving to a new city, then you owe it to yourself to have coffee with 50 people before making the jump.

Setting the goal of having coffee with 50 people forces you to be clear about your goals. Making the goal public, one person at a time, also makes it much stronger. Having 50 coffees is good because then you have to commit to the specific move that you want to make. You’ll also get input from smart and interesting people.

You can read the full article, including great tips on who to ask for those 50 coffees, how to ask them and how to make the most of your time together, here.

What do you think of the 50-cup challenge? Is the number too high? Could you do it?

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The post 5 Essential Tips for Surviving Awkward Networking Events appeared first on Brazen Life.

Use these tips to save yourself from potential embarrassment:

1. Wear an appropriate outfit

If you have to wonder whether or not your outfit is appropriate for a work function, it isn’t.

This is important. If you even have to think about it for one second, turn around, go to your room, open your closet and change. When you’re going to a work event, the last thing you want to do is look like you’re going clubbing afterwards. GenY has a hard enough time being taken seriously in the workplace as it is.

Make sure to dress the part. There’s nothing wrong with being trendy—just don’t give people a reason to say anything negative about your attire. You want to be remembered, yes. But you don’t want to be remembered as the one with the teeny tiny skirt and skin-tight shirt. (No matter how good you look in it.)

2. Have only one drink—you’ll thank yourself later

This is a big one. Most people avoid networking events like the plague. But of the people who do actually attend, many go for the free booze. Recent grads often don’t have a lot of money. And we’re thirsty. It’s hard to turn down free alcohol.

But at these events, you should do just that.

When you get there, grab a glass and get to know it. Become its friend. Because it’s the only alcoholic beverage you should have while there. A lot of people enjoy alcohol because it gets them to loosen up and makes these awkward situations a little more bearable, but you don’t want to make a fool of yourself. Not here.

Make a fool of yourself later, with your friends. Somewhere where your actions aren’t going to affect future potential job offers. Those free drinks could end up costing you much more than they’re worth.

3.  Be interesting

Do. Not. Be. Boring. Most people at networking events are kind of stiff. Personality level? Zero.

Be yourself and don’t be afraid to talk about things unrelated to work. You like to go scuba-diving? Sweet! Talk about it. You studied abroad in college? Talk about your favorite place to eat in Italy.

If you want people to remember you, you need to be interesting. Simply reading off a script and reciting your previous work experience will most likely bore everyone to tears. And at the next event, they’ll make sure to avoid you.

4. Be interested

While it’s important to be interesting and share your experiences with others, don’t forget to be interested, too. Ask people about their lives. Ask them about their experiences.

No one likes the person who just doesn’t shut up. It shouldn’t be all about you. Make sure that the conversation goes both ways. It’s only polite.

5. Be confident

The most confident person in the room holds the most influence. If you go to a network event and you’re not sure what to do, you’re not confident, you’re feeling super awkward and you ultimately spend the whole night just standing next to that tree, people will notice.

Own the fact that you’re there. You have just as much a right as anyone else to be there. You are interesting. People do want to talk to you. And there’s nothing awkward about this.

So, make an effort to be confident, even if you’re pretending a little. Don’t just go to eat the food.

Kayla Cruz, founder of Gen Y Girl, is a young 20-something just entering the workforce who’s hoping to share her experiences with other young professionals. She’s not bratty, just opinionated, and writes at www.lostgenygirl.com.

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The post How to Turn The Dreaded “How’s the Job Search Going?” Question Into Opportunity appeared first on Brazen Life.

Your knee-jerk reaction may be to brush off the question with a brusque, “fine” or, even worse, express bitterness or concede defeat to get it out of the way and move onto the next subject.

Don’t do it!

Remember: The person inquiring about your job search (assuming he doesn’t have a sadistic streak) is not trying to upset you. Most likely he’s either trying to make small talk or genuinely cares about you and your job search.

In either instance, you have a chance to turn that dreaded question into a networking opportunity that may push your job search forward. After all, most open jobs aren’t even advertised (up to 80 percent, by some estimates). “Remember, every person you know and every person you meet is a potential employer, or knows a potential employer,” Carisa Miklusak, CEO of TMEDIA, told CareerBliss.

So if you’re mired in a never-ending job search and someone asks “that” question, don’t deflect it. Instead, do something productive and seize the opportunity to do a little networking.

1. Be honest and positive

If your job search isn’t going so hot, it’s okay to say so. What you want to avoid is coming off as hopeless, bitter or angry. Negativity will sour any networking attempt.

Avoid responding like this: “I send out resume after resume and rarely get any response. And when I do, it’s to tell me I’m either overqualified or lack experience. What a load!”

Instead, try something along the lines of, “It’s tough out there, and finding a job is taking longer than I had hoped it would. But I’m keeping at it, and I know I’ll find the right opportunity.”

Now, we’re not suggesting that it’s never appropriate to gripe about your slog through a disappointing job search. Just save the venting for close friends or loved ones.

2. Don’t ask for a job

Networking is about meeting people, building relationships and helping others—the more people who know you and the more people who think you’re a class act, the more likely someone will think of you when they hear of a particular opportunity.

Networking is not about asking for a job. So don’t do it! And in this case, the person already knows your need. Stick to talking about your job search efforts and your experience.

3. Do ask for advice

Asking for a job is out, but don’t be shy about asking for advice with open-ended questions such as:

• In your experience…
• What’s worked for you?
• What would you do in this situation?

The key is to ask for advice in terms of the person’s personal experience. Generally, people like to talk about themselves. And there is a certain ego boost that comes along with being asked to dispense advice. Finally, ask if it’s okay if you both connect on LinkedIn.

This may seem like a lot to cover when someone casually asks, “How’s your job search going?” But remember, this question is an opportunity to walk away with helpful nuggets of job hunting advice and could bring you one step closer to that job.

If you’re nervous about saying the wrong thing, trying practicing your answer with something along the lines of, “It’s moving slower than I hoped it would. I just can’t seem to get called in for an interview, despite my qualifications. In your experience, what’s the best way to get your resume noticed?”

And, voilà, you just took that dreaded question and used it to network. Now that’s savvy job searching!

Luke Roney is the content manager for CareerBliss.com, an online community dedicated to helping people find happiness in the workplace.

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The post Brazen Networking Emails That Really Work appeared first on Brazen Life.

What really gets people’s attention–whether you’re networking for yourself or for a friend–are witty, personalized and (dare we say it?) somewhat brazen emails people will remember. Mandy Stadtmiller at xoJane shares examples of the actual messages she’s sent to various contacts that have resulted in successful connections for both herself and her friends. As she writes:

Keep in mind, both Madeline [a colleague] and I didn’t apply for traditional “jobs” at xoJane. We pitched ourselves and the jobs were created. Mine took a year, but if I hadn’t planted the seeds early on, it never would have happened.

Here is actual language I’ve used that has gotten me or friends in the door over the years. Feel free to gank and customize as you will!

You can check out the full post here.

Gank away!

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The post 5 Ways Recruiters Can Add More Numbers to That Little Black Book appeared first on Brazen Life.

That’s why marketing yourself to companies with open jobs and job hunters is the key to success for recruiting agencies. Read on for five of the best ways to increase your recruiting agency‘s little black book of contacts:

1. Get (your brand) out there

The first step to developing a reputation among hiring companies and job seekers is to let them know that you exist.

Invest in a booth at your industry’s trade association fair or convention. Start conversations with both people seeking work as well as companies that are hiring. Be ready to take down information and to follow up on those connections as soon as possible!

2. Beef up your LinkedIn and Twitter activity

Since so many companies are posting jobs on LinkedIn, the site is becoming a useful tool for recruiters. Join LinkedIn’s many discussion groups to find out which companies are hiring, and contact the hiring managers who are discussing these roles for a chance to recruit for them.

Use LinkedIn to search for job hunters, too. Make sure your LinkedIn profile projects professionalism, including a sensible profile picture and a concise and catchy summary to hook people in. (Avoid using these words.) Consider linking your Facebook profile as well so your recruiters have as many databases as possible to search for job seekers.

Twitter has also become a go-to tool for companies advertising job vacancies and candidates looking for work. Keep an eye out by searching tweets for keywords. Companies who advertise for jobs on Twitter are often looking to fill positions quickly, so respond quickly to improve your chance of getting their business.

3. Ask for referrals from your connections

Once you start building a list of professionals in the fields you recruit for, build that list by asking those contacts for referrals.

Consider adding an incentive, such as a $250 referral fee for anyone who puts you in contact with a candidate who is ultimately hired by one of your clients. If you help land their referral a job, you get paid and they’ll get a small reward.

4. Recruit “outside the box” to step up your game

Move beyond the trade show booth tables and ramp up your activity in your industry.

Do you recruit accountants? Consider sponsoring a continuing education course to build your reputation among both accounting firms and accountants. If you recruit creatives for advertising agencies, think of an event that will appeal to both, like an art show. You can also can sponsor a happy hour, charity bowling night or golf outing to build your brand and collect contacts.

5. Turn your job-hunting contacts into hiring contacts

Once you help one of your recruits get hired, keep the relationship going strong. Maintain contact with that happily employed professional because in a week, month or year, they’ll come to you first when they decide they want a new job. In the meantime, that professional is also likely to recommend you to fellow job hunters and hiring managers.

And, try to build a relationship with the hiring manager of the company. Even if that person cannot directly hire for jobs, they can recommend you to their boss or HR department as a valuable partner for recruiting future candidates.

Remember: whether your recruiting agency is brand new or has been around for years, building and maintaining your business is dependent on the relationships you are able to forge and grow.

Simon Brooks has over 20 years’ experience in the recruitment industry and is currently working for BCL Legal.

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The post How to Navigate the Job Network You Didn’t Know You Had appeared first on Brazen Life.

If you’re not tuned into the power of networking yet, it’s time to learn! An amazing 60 percent of jobs are found through networking. While that’s an encouraging statistic, if you’re new to networking or you haven’t found it fruitful, it can be time-consuming and daunting.

So take the hassle out of networking with these simple steps. This field guide will help you navigate your network and build new, meaningful connections with people who can help you meet your career goals.

Step 1: Before you reach out, do your homework

Set goals and expectations

Before you get started, it’s important to set goals and expectations for your networking efforts. What kind of job are you trying to land? What questions do you need answered? What kinds of professionals are you hoping to connect with? How can you make it easy for your connections to help you?

Be realistic. You should never expect to land a job from your networking efforts alone. Although it’s a great route to take, it’s highly unlikely your connections are going to simply hand you a job just because they know you.

Identify who’s who in your current network

The great thing about networking is that we all start with a foundation of people in our network. Your current connections are your starting place for your networking efforts. We’ve all had past positions and former coworkers, past educational experiences and former classmates, and even friends and family who may all be a stepping stone to someone else.

Get organized

Write down information pertaining to the people in your job network. Bust out an Excel database to keep track of what your current connections are doing and where they’ve been. Some things to note when creating your document:

• Contact information: Do you even still have their number or email?
• How you know them: If your list starts getting long, this column will help you keep track.
• Past jobs: Are any of the companies they’ve worked for on your radar? Are there job openings at these companies?
• Current position: Does their employer have any job openings that you’re interested in?

Not sure of some of the answers? Try using LinkedIn to see if these connections have completed profiles. If you’re friends with them on Facebook, you can also take a look at their employment history or reach out via direct message for more information.

Step 2: Expand your network

Clean up your online presence

Before you reach out to any new folks, please, please, please edit your social networking profiles. Google yourself. Edit or delete pictures if needed. Professionalize your online presence. This is the first look new connections are going to have into your “life”…so make it count!

Identify new contacts

This is where the meat of your networking efforts comes into play. Here are a few types of people you should be connecting with:

Insiders: People who are employed at a company you’d like to work for. Look back at the Excel list and start there, but definitely expand this list to meet your goals.

Industry professionals: These are industry professionals who are your past classmates or coworkers, are part of professional organizations, are active in other relevant areas or are thought leaders in your field. Try reaching out to them to see if they can connect you with anyone helpful.

Past coworkers: If you haven’t already connected with people from the Excel list you’ve created, it’s time to reach out.

Reach out to new contacts

Whether you invite someone to connect on LinkedIn or invite them to meet for coffee, always send personal emails and steer clear of mass mailings. Be respectful of their time and keep your communication concise and polite. It’s a good rule of thumb to avoid explicitly asking for a job, especially if your email is the first time you two have “met.” Be respectful of their time.

Step 3: Keep up with your network connections

This is the most important part of your networking efforts. It’s exciting when you finally find some connections that move along your job search, but be sure to repay them by keeping in contact and being thankful.

The key is that you want to build a mutually beneficial relationship. This means you’ll help them out down the road, too, if needed! In the meantime, send a quick “hello” every now and again, share interesting industry research or articles or update them on your career progression.

What hangups do you have when networking? Feel free to ask your pressing networking questions in the comments below.

Sudy Bharadwaj is a co-founder and the CEO of Jackalope Jobs, a platform that helps job seekers find a job via their social networks. Learn how Sudy and Jackalope Jobs obsess over job seekers by connecting with them on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

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The post How to Navigate the Job Network You Didn’t Know You Had appeared first on Brazen Life.