When you're looking for a job, the first instinct is to call your A-list and ask if they know of any openings. However, that's not networking; it's need-working. What you should do is separate yourself from your emotions; stop the impulse to collect business cards and ask yourself, "What can I do to help people in my network?"

Resist the urge to talk about you, become a great listener and find out what others need. You'd be surprised what naturally comes up in conversations where you could provide help — a referral, suggestion, introduction, or just some time and attention. ExecuNet CEO and Founder Dave Opton shares his experience and what he has seen to be most effective for executives.

Robyn Greenspan
Robyn Greenspan is the Editor-in-Chief at ExecuNet, where she is responsible for setting and driving the editorial content engagement strategy across the private business network's publications and expert-led programming. She is also a Huffington Post blogger. You can follow her on Twitter @RobynGreenspan

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Lessons learned from and about six-figure leadership and executive career management

Rules of Engagement for Executive Insider

Leadership

Dave Opton’s Six-Figure LearningsPatty Azzarello's Business Leadership BlogJohn BaldoniRussell BishopWally Bock's Three Star Leadership BlogGeorge Bradt’s PrimeGenesisBuilding ChampionsCEO Blog – Time LeadershipCrucial SkillsScott Eblin’s Next Level BlogAdrian GostickLeadership FreakDavid LivermoreJohn MaxwellN2Growth BlogDaniel PinkTerry StarbuckerWorking Knowledge

Recruiting/HR/Search Firms

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Career Management

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