Schmoozing 101

Two SJSU students discuss the do’s and don’ts of networking.

The number one way to land a job is through someone you already know. But how do you build up a proper repertoire of contacts? How do you ensure that you stand out from the rest? I sat down with Christina De Anda, legal secretary at Howrey LLP, and she shared her take on the art of schmoozing. While mingling at a party, De Anda met one of the firms lead paralegals and was able to schmooze her way in. With no legal secretary experience and without a college degree, she is now secretary to one of the firm’s head partners. Once these four steps are mastered, you will be able to talk your way into a coveted internship or job.

 

Get out and about. Face-to-face contact is crucial when networking. De Anda says, “You can’t schmooze someone from your couch or from your Facebook page. Schmoozing is a social game.” It starts with the simple act of saying hello. De Anda says, “So many people get stuck because they never say hello. Saying hello first shows initiation and confidence. And it opens the door for conversation.”

Listen rather than talk. “I have a habit of tuning people out when they talk too much.” De Anda says. “Remember that conversation is a two-way street.” Most people love to talk about themselves and their accomplishments. Try asking more questions about them instead of rambling on about yourself.

Keep eye contact. De Anda says, “Look people in the eyes. It’s simple, but a lost art.” You want to make sure you come across like you’re sincerely interested in what they have to say. De Anda says, “Looking at them in the eyes shows them you’re engaged in the conversation, interested. You’re letting them know you’re right there with them.”

Stay in touch. A good schmoozer is one who calls or e-mails soon after the initial meeting. De Anda says, “You’re not going to be the only individual they talk to at the party, but make sure that you’re the first they hear from the next day.” De Anda also notes, “It’s important to make your follow-up personal. If it’s an e-mail, say something that refers to your conversation so that they know it’s not a copy-and-pasted e-mail you sent out to each of the 47 people you met the night.

 

Jillian Dehn