Like personal branding, networking is not an event solely intended to find employment but its a tool that helps you grow within your current organization. Opportunities can present themselves at any moment because you never know you are talking to. Therefore, it is essential for you to position yourself and be ready (Check out 5 Ways to Position Yourself for Success).
So, what do you think of when you hear the word “networking?” Most of the individuals I have worked with say three things:
- Its scary. Correct. Network is often approaching someone you do not know and beginning a conversations. You are not always asking for something, instead, you are building a solid mutually beneficial relationship. In creating a mutual beneficial relationship, you come to understand the person, their current/potential needs, personal/professional interest, and build trust. Trust is essential if you want someone to genuinely help you and/or your cause and brings forth actions because they want to see you succeed.
- You only do it when you need a job. Wrong. networking can help further you within your current organization, personal interest, as well as find new job opportunities. The goals of networking is not to get a job but its the building of relationships or partnerships with others to be the best version of ones' self. Plus, you never know what the future holds.... learn to plan ahead :).
- I know networking is important. But how can I do it? There is no easy answer to this question because everyone communicates in a differently. However, here are 10 Tips of Effective Networking, I have used.
- Prepare: You need to be mentally, physical, and emotional prepared for networking. To decrease the stress, think of networking as just a series of small conversations. Also, if you attending a formal networking event remember to dress the part and be on time. Do not over think what you will say, be confident, and smile.
- Don't dominate the conversation: Networking is relationship building, so you want to get the conversation started but give others a chance to join and actively listen to their responses. Maintain eye contact, nod, and have good spacial proximity. The goal is to make a good first lasting impression in their minds.
- Brand yourself but not all at once: Remember this is a conversation, so do not give your formal elevator speech. Instead, find ways to work into the conversation while keeping the conversation light and informal.
- Stay focused: Know what you want to achieve from networking, commit to it, and make time to work toward your goal. (Check out The Problem and Solution to Goal Setting)
- Network across industries: In today's global market many organizations are seeking employees with myriad knowledge or skills set. Therefore, it is important to have contact in many area to increase knowledge and skill base beyond your industry.
- Don't worry about rejection. Remember networking is a series of small conversation, so do not feel bad if your conversation is cut short. Not everyone you meet will share the same interest and/or may have a list of preferred people he/she wants to meet.
- Make a promise, keep it: If you make a promise to complete an action or project then complete it in the timely manner. Remember this is your first impression, so you want to show that you do what you say you will do.
- Be flexible: You never know when a networking opportunity may arise or how formal it will be. Be able to adjust to the networking environment easily and transition in/out of conversations easily. You may want to prepare same sample ice breakers cheat sheet to help.
- Have fun and be positive: You know who you are, what your passions are, and what you want to achieve. So do not be nerves, just state the obvious. Have fun, smile, and be confident.
- Follow-up: Networking is relationship building therefore you want to remain in contact after your initial meeting (usually within 24-48 hrs after). When sending the initial follow-up remember to add where, when, and how you meet because some people may not remember your name. Also, if possible mention something you enjoyed when speaking with them.
