Making Connections
©2008 by Dawn Rosenberg McKay. Used with permission of About, Inc. (http://careerplanning.about.com/od/networking/a/networking.htm) which can be found online at www.about.com. All rights reserved.
What is Networking?
Networking must be the most often used buzzword of the past decade. Everyone tells us we must network to get ahead in our careers. We must network to hear about new job offers. Network - Network - Network. Just what is networking anyway? According to Webster's New World Dictionary, a networkis a "group, system, etc. of interconnected or cooperating individuals." Networking, therefore is the use of this group or system to achieve some sort of end result. As it is used in regard to careers, the end result of networking is career growth. As a matter of fact, many human resources professionals view it as the leading contributor to career growth, and who among us would turn down a way in which we can make our career grow?
Why You Need to Network
Networking is not a way to get jobs, as commonly believed. It is a way to make contacts. These contacts may eventually lead to job opportunities. They may also help you find new employees when you are in a position to hire. These contacts may be a source of information about an area in which you are unfamiliar. You know one of your contacts specializes in this area so you can go to her for information.
Your network is made up of almost anyone you've ever met. Of course not everyone is part of your active network, but each person has the potential of leading you to other contacts. The relations within your network are bi-directional. In other words, one hand washes the other. Don't hesitate to offer support as well as ask for it.
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Part 2: Grow and Nurture Your Network
Members of Your Network
Business Associates: As you move from job to job, you come in contact with colleagues who are moving around as well.
Professional Associations: Don't just join them. Become an active member, by serving on committees, so your colleagues can see you in action.
Friends and Family: Your brother-in-law's uncle's cousin may be a recruiter in your field. Keep your family and friends apprised of your career goals.
Former Professors and Instructors: Your former professors and instructors were most likely professionals in your field. Some probably still are.
Former Classmates: College friends are now colleagues. Also, check out the alumni directory of your college (and of your fraternity or sorority, if it applies) for a wider range of contacts.
How To Keep Your Network Alive
Don't let your network die. You must keep it alive by staying in touch with your contacts. Use the telephone to make members of your network aware of job changes, promotions, etc. Use snail mail and email to drop a note of thanks for a job lead or a reference. Also, remember to attend association meetings and special events.
What To Do If You're Shy
Some of us, by nature, find it very difficult to approach people. How do you network, if just saying hello to a stranger sends shivers up your spine. The experts say that you shouldn't change your personality and suddenly become outgoing. You should put yourself in situations where you will have the opportunity to meet people. For example, doing volunteer work will give people a chance to see you in action and possibly approach you. This will also give you the opportunity to establish rapport with others. If the telephone is a problem, you can keep in touch with members of your network via snail mail or email. Don't forget networking opportunities on the Internet. Message boards offer a good way to do this.