Most successful job seekers say that networking was key to them landing a position. Likewise, most successful Hiring Managers agree networking is an equally important element to finding great future employees. Recruiters are awesome, but you don’t have to wait for them to initiate the connection.

The Internet offers dozens of new ways to network: LinkedIn, Plaxo, Facebook, Digg, University Alumni websites, and other social networking sites. The key to successful networking is to know what to say when the moment arises.

Most successful job seekers say that networking was key to them landing a position. Likewise, most successful Hiring Managers agree networking is an equally important element to finding great future employees. Recruiters are awesome, but you don’t have to wait for them to initiate the connection.

The Internet offers dozens of new ways to network: LinkedIn, Plaxo, Facebook, Digg, University Alumni websites, and other social networking sites. The key to successful networking is to know what to say when the moment arises.

Do your homework - So you want to work at Company XYZ? Great! What do you want to do? Which career paths interest you most? Which product or marketing or finance groups best align to your skills and interest? Network for your target job through the sites listed above.

Respect others' time - Some employees post an open invitation on their blogs or IM to inquire about job openings. Some don’t. Either way, I do think it’s ok to contact these employees if you feel they know of openings that would be a great match for you – but no matter the type of invitation, respect their time and act professionally. As a general rule, do not IM employees to inquire about job openings … especially "after hours." Most IM names have email address attached so send your query via email. Keep your email clear and concise. Once you’ve emailed your contact, allow at least five business days for a response. If you don’t receive a response, it’s ok to send one more follow-up email – but let the contact go if you still don’t hear back. Don’t take it personally. Remember – you are emailing someone who likely doesn't know you and who may not know how to respond to you. There are other fish in the sea!

Be brave - You won’t get anything if you don’t ask. Take the chance. Approach the presenter after a conference presentation. Email your favorite blogger. Talk to the employee you met at a user group meeting. Take a leap!

Practice the pitch - for example at a career fair. First, introduce yourself. I find it useful to carry a cue card with my introductory words (pitch), which I reference before walking into a networking event or career fair – this way I am consistent and truthful to the mission I charted for myself with careful thought.

Explain your expertise in 30 seconds or less, and end with a question. Example: "I manage systems QA and roll out. Are you seeking such candidate?". If the person responds in the affirmative, then briefly describe your experience and your ideal career opportunity. Ask the interviewer if he or she could recommend a manager within the company who may be looking for someone with your skill set. When you follow up on casual introductions, don’t include your resume in your introductory email. Likely, the recipient will move directly to your resume and won’t read your email thoroughly. Wait until you have a live interest from the recipient before sending over your resume.

Stop the spam - Don’t "date around", meaning send out your resume unsolicited. Instead, customize each communication to the unique recipient. Use blogs and other forms of Web 2.0 interactivity to get noticed. Respond to others’ posts with insightful comments. Share licensed content or web links to establish rapport. Never email copyrighted material - not only is it illegal, but it sends the wrong message about your ethics to the recipient.

Show your gratitude and build the network - Did your networking work? Thank the employee who helped you get in the door. A nice email or thank you card is fine. And if that person was able to help you, perhaps he or she can help your colleagues and friends, too. Offer to introduce your new buddy to others in your network. Use the principle of reciprocity - you have to give before you can receive. If you wish to be helped, then extend a helping hand first.

Now get out there and flourish!

For more on how to enroll people to your cause, please see our video Lesson #4.