Full course description
Course summary:
Business networking is an effective and efficient way for business people to connect, develop meaningful relationships, and grow their businesses. These achievements don't come through a direct sales approach, however. They come from being interested in helping others, in listening, and in purposefully meeting and introducing people to one another.
In this course, you'll learn the essential ingredients for business networking, including in-person, people-centered connections and online spaces such as LinkedIn. Business networking is all about connecting with others, developing relationships, and building your business. Whether you're at a networking group meeting, checking out your Twitter feed, or grabbing lunch at your favorite cafe, networking skills can benefit you and those around you.
Course objectives:
After completing this course, learners should be able to:
- Introduce yourself in a meaningful, memorable way, even if you've never worked on an elevator pitch before.
- Focus on your networking goals so that you make the most of events you attend.
- Apply the concept of give first and be helpful as part of a system of reciprocity.
- Use strategy and systems in order to network effectively.
- Leverage the availability and usefulness of the Internet, including LinkedIn and Twitter.
Recommended background:
No additional background knowledge or skills are required for this course.
Course topics include:
- Identifying Opportunities and Customizing Your Approach
- Creating a Positive First Impression
- Starting the Conversation
- Business Cards
- Handling Tough Situations
- Following Up
- Organizing Your Network
- Leveraging the Internet
Elements of the course:
- Informational text
- Interactive practice activities
- Supplemental reference materials
- Final assessment
This course is self-paced, allowing learners the flexibility to complete the course as quickly or slowly as they need.
After completing all course content and activities, you will complete a final quiz to demonstrate your understanding of key course concepts. Upon successful completion of the quiz, you will be awarded a certificate of completion.
Course creators:
This course was designed and developed by the Eppley Center for Parks and Public Lands at Indiana University, using content from Velsoft.
How to access:
Upon enrolling, you will receive instructions and the link to the Canvas course. Note: When you register, you will receive an email invitation. Be sure to accept that invitation, or Canvas will not allow you to open the course modules.
Enrollees can move through content modules at their own pace within the course timeframe.