Getting Networking Expertise in 7 Easy Steps
Are you feeling anxious about the idea of networking? In today's fast-paced, tech-driven world, the convenience of applying for jobs online from the comfort of your own home can be quite tempting. However, in order to truly excel in your job search and advance in your career, networking is essential. Building and nurturing professional relationships can open up a world of opportunities that may not be accessible through traditional job applications alone.
While some individuals seem to naturally excel at networking, for most of us, it is a skill that must be learned and practiced over time. Studies have shown that internal referrals are often the key to landing a job, highlighting the importance of cultivating personal connections in your professional network.
Here are 7 simple steps to help you build your networking expertise:
1. Set Clear Goals Before diving into the world of networking, take some time to clearly define what you hope to achieve through your professional relationships. Are you looking to connect with a potential employer? Find a mentor for career guidance? Expand your network within your industry? By setting specific goals, you can better focus your efforts, fine-tune your elevator pitch, and identify key individuals to reach out to.
2. Start with Friends If you're feeling apprehensive about networking, consider starting with people you already know. Reach out to friends, colleagues, or acquaintances for coffee or lunch and discuss their career experiences. Even if you've known each other for a while, exploring their professional journey can provide valuable insights. Don't be afraid to ask for referrals or introductions to individuals or companies of interest.
3. Attend Networking Events While online networking has its benefits, there is no substitute for in-person interaction. Seek out networking events in your area that cater to job seekers, industry professionals, recruiters, and potential employers. Engaging with others face-to-face can lead to meaningful connections that may not be possible through virtual communication. Remember, it's about quality over quantity – focus on building relationships that truly matter.
4. Be Curious When networking, it's easy to get caught up in talking about yourself and your own aspirations. Instead, make an effort to ask thoughtful questions and actively listen to others. Show genuine interest in their goals and experiences, and offer support and encouragement where you can. Networking is a two-way street, and building authentic relationships begins with showing empathy and curiosity towards others.
5. Create a Network Matrix Organize your contacts and connections by creating a “Who + Where” matrix to track individuals who work for or are affiliated with companies of interest to you. Utilize these relationships as references when applying for jobs, with their permission of course. Having a personal connection at a company can greatly increase your chances of success during the application process.
6. Give Back to Your Community Volunteering for a cause you believe in can not only make a positive impact in your community but also expand your social circle and network. Engaging with individuals outside of your industry can lead to unexpected networking opportunities and new connections. Consider volunteering for a professional organization related to your field of interest to meet potential mentors or colleagues.
7. Follow Up and Stay Engaged After networking events or meetings, be sure to follow up with your contacts via email. Express gratitude for their time and insights, and fulfill any commitments you have made. Stay in touch with your network, even if you don't have immediate job opportunities on the horizon. Building and maintaining relationships takes time and effort, so be proactive in staying connected and engaged.
In conclusion, networking is a powerful tool that can greatly enhance your job search and career advancement. By setting clear goals, reaching out to friends and colleagues, attending networking events, asking thoughtful questions, creating a network matrix, giving back to your community, and staying engaged with your contacts, you can develop a strong professional network that will support you throughout your career journey. Remember, networking is not just about finding job opportunities, it's about building lasting relationships based on trust and goodwill. Incorporating networking into your online job search strategy can significantly increase your chances of success. So, get out there, shake some hands, and watch your network grow!