jason hanold - summer networking do's and don'ts

The Do’s and Don’ts ofSummer Networking

Jason Hanold

JASON HANOLD • WWW.JASONHANOLDHR.COM

The Do’s and Don’ts of Summer Networking


As leader of executive search firm Hanold Associates, Jason Hanold works with clients to identify top talent. Among the skills Hanold looks for is networking ability.



Effective networking at summer events is best saved for those who are adept at reading a room and nuanced in relationship-building, otherwise it may prove counter-productive. Understand that people are gathering together during the summer to celebrate, socialize, and enjoy the outdoors and special occasions, and they often leave their "professional psyche" behind. Few are attending to discuss business, in fact, that’s the last thing they want to think about, especially those who are in demanding, high-stress roles. You don’t want them to feel as though they need human repellent to keep the overt networker away. Instead, view these events as mainly an opportunity for relationship building.



Don't:● Be overt or in their face in your networking attempts. People

are there to have fun and to forget about work.● Push your agenda to a disinterested crowd—you’ll become

known for all of the wrong reasons.● Attend an event with the primary mission and goal of

networking. Enjoy the moments and celebrations in life and view a new relationship or contact as a beneficial by-product from such an event.

● Forget that this is all about relationship-building. Develop good relationships and networking goals fall into place.



Do:● Ask questions. People love to talk about themselves. The

best way to get them to feel as though they trust and know you is actually when you know them.

● Be prepared. Have business cards and a pen to write down contact information.

● Read the room. Make wise decisions about whether talking business or job interests is really appropriate in that setting. Networking is most effective when nuanced.

● Practice a sound-bite that describes what you do or aspire to do. If you have a chance to drop it in conversation, great—share it and move on. Allow others to ask questions but don’t expand it on your own.



Summer events are typically centered around enjoying warmer temperatures, casual conversations, and relaxation. Enjoy that and allow others to enjoy it as well and the relationships will happen. And truly, relationships are what networking is all about.

jason hanold - summer networking do's and don'ts

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