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Networking - when and where and how to make the
most of it
Networking allows you to make smart connections that can lead to a
successful career. A vast number of
jobs are never advertised and are
filled through word of mouth. Jobseekers need to therefore build a
network of contacts - often called a "career network". This can include
anything from your friends mum putting in a good word in for you in
their company, to meeting an old school friend, to meeting someone you
have something in common with in a chat room to bumping into someone on
the train.
When, where and how you network is just as
important as whether you network full stop.
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When?
It is a good idea to build your network of contacts as early as
possible and not just when you are unemployed. A lot of people make
this mistake. The most effective networks are those where the people
you know have a high level of trust in you and understand your needs.
This is most successfully built over time.
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Where?
When people think about networking, they first think about being
dressed up smartly, going to business events and such like. But
effective networking can take place in any situation - whether you are
on the bus, in a shop or on holiday enjoying the sun. You never know
when you could bump into someone who has the perfect job waiting for
you or knows of someone who is currently recruiting for your dream job
- you only by chance find out about it by striking up a conversation.
There are plenty of networking events to attend
and you will need to find out about these in your local area. These
allow you to build up business contacts in the area that may come in
handy in the future. They can develop into strong relationships
providing support and information.
Also, think about getting in touch with people
from the following groups, as they may be able to help with specific
career information:
· University alumni
· Friends and their parents
· Family and extended family
· Friends or acquaintances from your local clubs, religious groups or
other courses/training/events you attend
· Local organisations you know of
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How?
Effective networking is about give and take so always be able to offer
something back in return.
Do not be afraid to ask for some help or advice
from others. Most people like to help others so this will certainly not
be frowned upon. Likewise, act as a resource and assist others. This
will help to forge effective relationships where people will want to
give something back in return.
Becoming active in a community helps you to
network - people get to know who you are, what you do and it is a
really good way to develop your network.
The same goes for networking online - by becoming
a regular attendant on message boards and chat rooms, you will become
well known and extend your networking circle.
You should always nurture your contacts, simply by
calling or sending a short email just to keep in touch.
When you are in a public place, just strike up a
conversation with a random person - start with some small talk. This
could lead to a meaningful discussion.
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At Networking Events:
If you are attending a network event, then go with some knowledge about
the event and what you want to achieve from it. The event will be much
more of a success if you do and you will be able to talk to people with
ease and get contacts that will help you in the best way.
You must listen to others, otherwise you will put
people off from befriending you and you will not help to grow your
network circle.
Be smart. Dress up so you look professional. Make
eye contact with others and come across as confident.
Do not just speak to one person. The idea of a
networking event is to speak to as many people as possible as possible
- introduce yourself, exchange details and make sure you are not a
wallflower.
Avoid lying or exaggerating about speaking to
important people i.e. who you know as well as telling others about
yourself and what you do - you will only forget what you have spoken
about to who and in the long run it could come back and burn all your
bridges you have spent time building.
Finally, do not forget your business cards!
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