Matt Corker

- Introduced the 4 key principles to great networking: start with your inner circle; build trust; follow-up and refer; leave your mark.
- Presented to Sauder School of Business students at Frosh 2009
- Started with involving the crowd by having volunteers read out this introduction (You should read it top to bottom first, and then bottom to top to get the full effect)

This is the art of “networking”

I realize this may be a shock but
Networking is about creating positive relationships and friendships
Is a lie, and
Just getting a business card or adding them to LinkedIn will keep you connected
Every day I tell my friends and current colleagues that
They are not the most important people to be connected with
My professional network will know that
I have my priorities straight because
Making small talk and getting my name out there
Are way more successful than
Following-up and sharing value-added information
I tell you this
Networking is done everywhere
This is not true in my life
Connections are made at wine and cheese events or when looking for a job
Experts tell me
There will not be a need for connecting with people and employers online
We can’t believe that
We can be a part of changing this old school way of shmoozing
In the future
Selling yourself with an elevator pitch will be the norm
No longer can it be said that
Professors and alumni in your community are your best “ins”
It will be evident that
Your benevolence and goodwill towards others will not be needed
It is foolish to presume that
Those around you today are those that will help you find opportunities in the future
Before anything you must know

This is the way we network at Sauder.

And all of this will become your reality unless you choose to do the exact opposite.

Related posts:

1. UBC Congregation Address: Be Bold
2. Trailer for the new Facebook movie: “The Social Network”