Foundations of Professional Networking

This unit introduces core concepts, benefits, and ethical boundaries of professional networking while building foundational interpersonal and communication skills. Students will learn how to identify and create support systems, initiate conversations, and use referral and Ask-Offer-Thank strategies to begin building a purposeful network that supports later relationship-building and business development units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze the components, benefits, and limitations of networking and differentiate networking from marketing and selling using real-world examples
• Apply effective introduction, mingling, and small-talk techniques in role-played networking events to initiate and exchange contact information
• Demonstrate how to design and articulate a personal network vision and create support systems across family, friends, and professional contacts
• Evaluate and construct referral and request messages using the Ask-Offer-Thank model and responsible use of informal communication channels