Career networking is one of the most important tools when you are looking for a job. But it is very easy to go wrong when you are trying to network, and then, your mistakes can really pull you down.
So here are a few pointers to get you started.
- Understand why networking is important. Only a small fraction of jobs available are actually advertised. All the others are only filled by personal recommendations, and word-to-mouth information. Having a large network helps you get to know about the existence of these jobs.
- Identify potential opportunities to network – office colleagues, ex-colleagues, social networking sites, alumni associations, professional organizations – and work systematically to establish yourself in all these places. When you start gaining contacts, list them or organize them in a database, or whatever works best for you.
- Be active on a professional social network like LinkedIn
- Join a professional organization that is related to your field. This is a great place to meet people who matter in your career
- Always keep copies of your resume handy. And try not to run out of business cards. You never know whom you will meet, and where.
- Remember that professional networking is not all about receiving. Giving is equally, if not more important. If you surface only when you need something, and then vanish again after your work is done, you will lose credibility.
- Whenever you meet new contacts, first make a personal connection. It matters a great deal. Find something common to talk about, or just ask inquire about the other person. And then go on to professional matters.
- Talk less, listen more.
- Don't sound desperate, even if you are. Maintain your cool, and sound confident. People are more likely to help those who look like they know what they are doing.
- Don't hesitate to ask for help. People are by nature generally kind, and really want to help. Besides, it makes them feel important.
- Respect boundaries. Don't spam people incessantly with your mails, or don't call them at odd hours.
- Use correct personal, email and phone etiquette.
- When Person A has recommended you, or forwarded your resume to Person B, keep Person A informed about the developments. That way, Person A will know that you are serious, and that you respect what he has done for you.
- If you do land a job, then make sure to thank everybody who was directly or indirectly responsible for it. A phone call is nice, but a written thank-you is far better. Your courtesy and manners will not go unnoticed.
- After you get a job, don't disappear. Remain active in the network. You might be of help to somebody else. Besides you never know when you will need them again!
So get networking!
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