networking it's a skill that comes easy to some but for tons of people myself included it's a skill that's acquired research shows that referrals are a top source of hires meaning those personal relationships they can really pay off so we're revealing the secrets of networking and answering the question we've all asked at some point is who you know more important than what you know [Music] for years athletes have used science and data analysis to improve now we are doing the same for jobseekers everywhere this is job signs when it comes to networking and social events there is nothing wrong with going alone putting yourself in a position to talk to new people it's actually a good thing you never know who you'll meet who they might know or how they can contribute to finding your next job meet Jess a retail sales associate she's attending her first ever fashion career Expo a cool way to break the ice in a group setting is by wearing something that pops it makes for a good conversation starter hey I love your shoes thank you I just got them I'm dressed Bria [Music] nice to meet you be yourself that is the most important thing here there's no need to try to be someone else or someone you're not if you're looking to start an authentic relationship it's key to ask about the other person first so what brings you here I'm actually a buyer I'm a sales associate cool so ah the head tilt this is the universal sign that says I'm listening purely through body language and what you are listening do so empathetically and with curiosity about the other person's career been oh just recognizes someone that is what happens when you research your connections this can help you focus your energy on talking to the right people I haven't seen you since we work together how are you I'm great I'm actually managing another boutique not too far from here once you've made a genuine connection feel free to bring up the topic of jobs even if it doesn't come up naturally in the conversation hey do you happen to need any sales associates or stylists even let's pause here the brain can actually detect confidence in another's voice Jess she's definitely feeling yourself smooth I'm looking oh yeah I'll pass along your info oh you have any business cards it's always good to have your business card and resume on you especially at these kinds of things but only get them out when asked for RIA Ben this is Rhea nice Hill once in a while think of people you know who should know each other but don't and then introduce them followed to see if their meeting was worthwhile this one's all about paying it forward this was the breakdown of networking till next time [Music] [Music]