Many people believe that they are imposing on others by networking, not realizing that done well, it can be mutually beneficial. Particularly if they are not extroverts, they sincerely wish that networking were not the best way of finding a job. In fact, there are other methods, and people should use all of them, in different proportions, depending on their personality, seniority, and the job market.
But all experts agree: networking is hands-down the very best way of finding a new position.
For some, the discomfort involved in networking leads to blockages, or difficulty thinking about whom to network with, or what to say. If you are someone for whom networking seems like a chore at best (and you have plenty of company), here are some tips that may help you overcome inertia and get moving.
- Figure out a good way to keep records.
Choose whatever works best for you - whether it's a three-ring notebook, an Excel spreadsheet or your contact list. It is essential, though, that whatever you use allows for fast retrieval. Suppose you get a call from someone who says "I'm returning your call from last month about an opportunity here at our firm." Gosh, what was that firm, and had you had a prior conversation with Mary Smith, and what was it about? Don't blow this callback because you can't get to your records fast enough. Pick a system that is easy to access and allows you to enter enough information, including any names they gave you, when you followed up, when you should recontact the person, the letter or e-mail you sent when you recontacted them, or notes from your phone call, and so on.
Some people prefer a spreadsheet plus individual folders arranged alphabetically. You'll be happy you did this if your job search lasts more than a few weeks! - Make an initial list of people with whom you can network. For example:
- Your extended family and personal friends. Sometimes job-seekers hesitate to impose. But consider that if you don't ask, your family and friends may feel hurt. Provide them with a list of organizations where you might be interested in working. Then ask what they might about the organizations, and if they know anyone at any level in these organizations. This way, thay can help you, even if theu don't know of any openings. If they agree to your contacting someone they know, that's a big help.
- Prediction: almost everyone will know one person with whom you meet, if you can supply them with a list of 30 to 50 targets. It's fine even if these people are not in the right area or at the right level: you want to talk with them so that you can learn more about the industry and organization.
- People you meet at professional associations. If you don't belong to any, join at least two. Be prepared to help others who hope to network with you by sharing information that you have. You can find a list of professional associations at the website for the American Society of Association Executives.
- College alumni association members. Your school will probably have an active career network, and you can call or email people to ask for information or advice. Most people like to assist their fellow alumni, so these networks can be extremely helpful.
- Social and religious group contacts
- Neighbors, and parents of your children's friends.
- Business associates. The people with whom you have worked in the past will often know people you don't. Go several jobs back. Then, think about the people outside your organization with whom you interacted. Your rolodex or email list will have many names - don't delete them too fast.
- Service providers, such as accountants, lawyers, insurance agents. Barbers and hairstylists get high marks for providing leads!
- Your suppliers. They'll hope you get a new job where you will consider directing business to them, or at least recommending them.
- Local business owners.
- People you know through your volunteer work, or your sports contacts.
- Plan and ask for conversations and meetings, not informational interviews.
The term "informational interview" sounds too much like a job interview, and has been overworked. Instead, plan to have meetings to gain answers to questions, advice, and names of additional people with whom to speak. Spend enough time on the internet (and perhaps clip articles from newspapers or magazines) so that you will have at least one or two interesting pieces of information that you can share in the meeting. Plan to give, as well as get. Offer your business card (if you are unemployed, have one printed with your contact information and your hoped-for job function, such as Financial Analyst) and invite the person to call if you can be of assistance - perhaps you'll have knowledge he or she needs. - Do a little preparation.
Prepare at least 5 questions you wish to ask (Example: "In your view, is this an area that is expanding or contracting?") as well as some verbal and written tidbits you can give away.
Take a list of job targets with you - unless you are talking to someone in one of your targets. You may be able to pull it out and ask whether the other person thinks there are any good organizations that you have left out. You can also ask him or her whether the organization is especially strong or good to its employees. Then ask if he or she knows any people in your target organizations with whom you could talk. If you are talking with someone in your target, stick to finding out more about the organization, where you might fit, and who else to meet there. - Look for networking opportunities everywhere.
You don't need to set up a meeting to network. Do it whenever the occasion allows. Why not approach someone standing alone near the food table at a meeting, and initiate a conversation? If you develop a little rapport, tell him or her why you came, and trade cards before you leave. When you get home, write notes on the card, and contact the person later to provide or ask for help. - Follow up with a thank you.
This note doesn't have to be long, or formal. An email will suffice, or a note on business-size, not personal, stationary. Mention one or two things that were especially helpful so the note doesn't look like a form letter. - Get back in touch.
Email is fine for this. Be in touch with each of your contacts every few months. Tell them what and how you are doing (stay positive) and see what's up with them, sending them something or mentioning something of interest. - Evaluate your networking success by the number and quality of contacts, not whether you have gotten a job.
The more contacts and meetings you have, the more likely you are to get the lead that turns into a job, all else being equal. So count your contacts and congratulate yourself on having become a successful networker. And, don't forget to give back when you can.
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