Networking! – lose the stigma!
Networking and socialising conjures up positive images most of the time but when they are attached to the notion of job hunting they tend to derive a negative connotation. Many job hunters feel as if they are cheating if they ask someone within their networks for a referral or a job offer.
However what many don’t realise is that networking is a skill just like writing a CV or excelling at academics. Networking takes a lot of time and effort and is a slow process that one must learn over time. As is the case with any other skill you need to work at networking in order to gain the benefits. So the next time you see your friend or colleague getting the job offer of their dreams from someone they know, remember it is because they worked to get there. More importantly, your day could be just around the corner if you start networking too. In fact in today’s competitive job market, networking is not simply an effective tool but a tool that every job seeker should use.
Once you have decided to jump into the world of networking there are two paths that you can take. You can choose the safer path of networking clubs, which entails employed peers, career coaches and other industry professionals who can guide you to effective networking in a safe and structured manner. This could set you back financially as well as in terms of time because those who decide to jump in straight away will have a head start over you. Of course there is no need to mention for many of us out there, especially the students amongst us, there is sheer lack of time and money.
So for those of you with an adventurous side, or purely because networking clubs is simply not an option there is always the head first method. Just dive straight into it head first. It might seem like a daunting task but you will soon find that is an exciting and enjoyable skill to gain. The first step you need to take is to look around you and see what network you already have. Unless you are a hermit living in the Himalayas you probably already have a pretty extensive network, but you just are not that aware of it. Look at the friends you already have, some of them maybe working, others may have family or friends in the industry that you are interested in. Use this to your advantage and start spreading your name around these networks. Another easy way to network is through internet platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn. Chances are you probably have a Facebook account which you can use to find out who in your network may be able to help you. LinkedIn can be even more effective because it is a professional network.
Another side to networking is using your own network to offer your services. If you can give advice or do a simple favour for one of your connections, then it is a lot easier to ask them for a favour in return. However, networking takes time and a great deal of energy. A network needs to be as deep as it is wide. A deep network is important as it allows you to build strong relationships that you can rely on.
Networking doesn’t have to be an ordeal, and if you follow the next three basic steps you will be an expert in no time.
Firstly always be aware of new opportunities that are coming along your way. If you are just sitting on the train and the person next to you is reading an interesting article or talking to a friend about a topic you have some knowledge in, don’t be afraid to butt in and join the conversation. You never know, they might just be the person who changes your life. Secondly raise your visibility, try and get your professional CV and business ambitions out there. The more people see you, the more people will get in touch with you. Finally, be confident, whenever you are approaching a new contact the first impression will make a huge difference, even if you are not confident, work on it and make sure you are comfortable with any situation that you are thrown into.
With this professional networking toolkit you don’t need to be afraid to step into the big bad world of networking, because in reality it is just a whole lot of fun and it could just land you your dream job. For more tips on networking take a look at some of the articles below.
Networking Opportunities
QS Forums- "Rise to new heights"
British Chambers of Commerce - "The ultimate business network"
Fresh Networking - "Business to business networking"
FindNetworkingEvents.com - "Online guide to UK networking"
Related Articles
Interns – Don’t Forget to Network
Facebook
Walk a different path
Networking 101
