Networking is a term that everyone has heard and some people use, but many are afraid of what this means. If you are a shy person this also can be daunting because it means mingling with people and you may not understand how to go about doing this. Take heart though because we are going to give you ways to do this.

Usually when people talk about successful networking they mean when you our outside your office. There are Chamber of Commerce events and other affairs that people say are good to go to in order to meet the right people.

Inside networking can be just as important to an individual who wants to get ahead in any company. In fact it can lead you to the people who have the internal jobs that most people don't hear about on the outside.

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your company networking:

1.Be approachable -- in a company people like those they can talk to and meet with under friendly circumstances. Get to know everyone from the janitor or mailroom person to the heads of departments.

2.Plan lunch with other employees -- people like to eat together and when you have lunch with colleagues you get to know them in a different atmosphere than at work. This is a good way to get to know the person rather than the employee.

3.Get in the habit of sharing information - in many offices people look at each other as competition and this can be far from the truth. Learn to share information about the industry or other tidbits that may help another employee.

4.Use Social Networking -- there are pros and cons for using social networks like Facebook or LinkedIn. Both of these sites are places where people network within companies and without. It is just another way to get to know the people in your company.

5.Talk to your boss -- a lot of people are afraid to do this but the boss is the best place to find out information you need. Talk to the boss about your performance and how it meets with the company goals. Also be sure to have career goals of your own to share.

6.Find a mentor -- there are people in your company who are doing the job you may want to do and they can help you get to where you want to go. Most mentors will help you with career guidance and let you know of upcoming job openings within the company that meet your skills.

7.Build a good reputation - make sure that you can always be looked at as dependable, professional and cooperative. These are skills that everyone needs in any job. This will also increase your visibility in your company.

Most people find that by knowing more people inside the company, they have access to jobs that aren't announced on the outside. Networking in your company can take time, but it is worth the effort. So put in that little effort and you'll soon reap the benefits.

Sharon Alexander - Claim That Job
For more information on how to manage your career successfully, and to get a free job hunting report, visit Claim That Job at http://www.claimthatjob.com