Everyone says you need to network to land your next opportunity. Perhaps you already are giving it a go, but it's just not working. After all, why can't you just continue to email your resume to hiring managers and cross your fingers. Maybe you hate networking and wonder if it's really that important. Here's the simple answer - YES! The hard-and-fast truth is you're more likely to find your next job through someone you know (or someone they know). Not knowing how to network successfully in today's environment today is like taking a bus across country instead of flying. Might be nice, if you have the time, but It will take forever!
Here are some strategies to make your networking efforts pay off :
1. Reframe Your Thinking - Networking is not a bad word, but the way many of us go about it makes it seem self-serving and sadly pathetic. Networking can be done thoughtfully and honestly if you strive to help others as much as they may help you. A good networker looks to make connections for mutual benefit. Instead of thinking," what can I get out of this", ask yourself "what can I give to the other person?" More and more people appreciate the value of being a resource to others.
2. Be Clear in Your Message - Be prepared to state your skills and what you're passionate about naturally and sincerely. You really don't want to wing it. However, if people sense a rehearsed, 30-second pitch, you'll lose their attention and it will smack of self-promotion. Practice first with people you know. You want a dialogue, so listen and ask about what they do first.
3. Know Your Purpose for Networking - You finally have a meeting with someone who's in your area of interest. Let's say you can talk about yourself pretty successfully. But can you state what you want to do, where you might want to work, or how this particular contact might be helpful to you? This might sound obvious, but many networkers waste their contacts' time hoping the contact will intuitively know how to direct them. This is no time to be shy. Put together a list of target companies along with your questions. You'll make a much better impression than most networkers and go a long way toward establishing a solid networking relationship.
4. Expand Your Circle - Have you limited your efforts to job search groups where you're all in the same boat? It's great to share strategies, but you want to think more broadly. Have you joined professional associations in your field? These meetings are great place not only for connecting, but for becoming more informed about trends and changes in the industry. In addition, you'll learn the current industry jargon and buzzwords to help you stand apart during interviews! Also, consider joining alumni groups, community groups, or classes to increase your network.
5. Watch What You Say - If you've been asking your friends or acquaintances if they know of any jobs out there, your success rate is probably pretty low. People don't really know how to respond. If they don't know of a position at that moment, it creates awkwardness. Instead, you need to build a connection and some goodwill first. If small talk isn't your forte, try asking about something you'd be interested in learning, i.e., any new restaurants they've tried or movies they'd recommend. Remember, your goal is to make a connection.
