Work that Network

Community Manager — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 16:08:00 GMT

Summer is a time for socializing. And while much of your mingling may be at beach BBQs or outdoor events, don't neglect to work your network during the lazy, hazy days of summer.

Need a little kick in the pants to move you from beach chair to business cards? Read our round-up of networking advice from across the web.

Quality, not size, matters most says the author of Managing Yourself: A Smarter Way to Network. Networks that are too large don't allow relationships to be properly nourished. Instead, rely on a group of 12-14 core contacts that provide developmental feedback and new sources of information and expertise. The article also provides tips on winnowing your network and making sure you are using your contacts most effectively.

We recently posted about networking wunderkind LinkedIn. Click here for their useful primer on how to optimize their service and network within their 100 million plus community.

And of course there's always what NOT to do. Inc.com offers "don't let this be you" advice in 6 Social Networking Faux Pas To Avoid.

Finally, for something fun (hey, it's summer!) we like the tips in 10 Apps to Up Your Social Networking Game.

Do you make regular time for networking? What are the most productive ways for you to work your network? Share your thoughts here and at the Pendaflex Facebook page.

Beyond Folders : summer vacation, networking

Work that Network