Network, Network, Network!!!

I cannot stress enough the importance of networking. For years I have been told that networking is a critical part of climbing up the social and professional ladder. Nowhere is the more true than in the nation’s capital. Since I have been in DC, I have learned first hand the importance of shaking hands and making connections (with the right people, of course). DC is a small city, which makes networking that more important—especially if you are hoping to land a job here afterwards. Plus, practice makes perfect.

A strong network goes a long way.

No matter where you want to end up, DC is a great place to start building your professional network. You never know when a friend in a Congress member’s office might come in handy. Moreover, it never hurts to have a ton of people in your address book; it makes you feel important. You should strive to be like the people in those Verizon commercial. Take it from them; having the one of the strongest networks is great thing.

As an added bonus, most of the prime networking events feature free food and drinks. Just the other day, my friend, Dofo, and I were able to network with Mayor and his staff at a fundraiser. A few handshakes and a few free cocktails led to possible campaign jobs in the fall. You just never know what can happen if you meet the right people.

So go practice your introduction, get your suits and business cards ready, and build up your network one Washingtonian at a time!

(Photo courtesy of http://www.rics.org/Aboutus/Howwework/Industryalliances/Spotlight.htm)