Job Hunting Graduates Need The Power Of Schmooze To Succeed

Job hunting? Sharpen your business networking skills using "schmooze-ability" tips.

(PRWEB) June 15, 2005 -- It's common knowledge that many jobs are filled through word of mouth networking, yet most job seekers begin their hunt without a strong business network. Having a dead, outdated or non-existent business network can extend the time it takes to find a job.

Connections are crucial for business success, but it's not so much who you know as who knows you," says Tampa-based consultant Denise O'Berry. President of The Small Business Edge Corporation, O'Berry has collected her observations on the skills and attitudes of master "schmoozers" in her networking tips guide, "101 Nuggets to Power Up Your Schmooze-Ability." Her advice includes:

- Before you go to a networking meeting, be prepared with a goal. Who do you want to meet? Why are you there? Have a conversation icebreaker ready to get to know the right people.

- Don't reserve every seat and act like a grump if someone unfamiliar wants to sit there. Welcome the opportunity that a stranger presents. They may be your next boss.

- Treat referrals like gold. Contact the referral within a day, if possible. Let the referrer know how things went.

- Online, your email creates the first impression just like your physical presence does at face-to-face meetings. Be the business professional that you are.

"I think that its a good primer for the networking newbie, but it still has enough nuggets in them that a networking veteran can still refer back to it as well," says H. Dean Hua, moderator of the Networker's Network. "Its succinct, and offers brevity at the same time. A book like this is a perfect opportunity to introduce college students to the world of networking."

The complete booklet, "101 Nuggets to Power Up Your Schmooze-Ability," can be purchased for $9 postpaid at http://www.deniseoberry.com/101tips, by calling 1-800-643-3370 or by sending a check or money order to The Small Business Edge Corporation, 14318 Pelham Lane, Suite C, Odessa, FL 33556.

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