Top 6 Rules for Networking

Experts have long stressed the importance of networking to one's career growth. Through networking we can learn about job opportunities particularly those we wouldn't have had access to otherwise. However job searching should not be the primary focus of your networking efforts. Your network can prove to be a very useful tool when it comes to other aspects of your career. Your contacts can give you advice and provide information. Follow these rules to help you maximize the benefits of networking.

1. Include Everyone You Know on Your Network
When it comes to networking everyone you know can become part of your network.

2. Be Willing to Ask for Help
In order to get help you have to ask for it. Don't be shy. If you need advice call someone on your network.

3. Be Willing to Give Help
Your network doesn't exist only for your benefit. You should be willing to offer your help to others as well. So, if someone on your network asks you to speak to his nephew about your job, you must be willing to do it. If you hear news that someone on your network can benefit from take the time to share it.

4. Don't Use Your Network for Only Job Hunting
Many people have the misconception that networking is only for job hunting. They attempt to utilize it only when looking for work. Well, guess what? If you only get in touch with your contacts when you are looking for work, your network may dry up. Not only that — your contacts may come to know you as "that person who's always looking for a job."

5. Keep in Touch With Your Network Contacts
Check in with your contacts every now and then. Find out what they're up to and let them know what is happening with your career. It will be much easier to track someone down after not talking to them for a couple of months than it will be after being out of touch for a year or longer.

6. Thank Your Contacts for Their Help