little-known ways to build your network for career success

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Little-Known Ways to Build Your Network for Career Success


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Introduction

• The true definition of networking • Little-known networking tips and techniques• Common networking mistakes and how to avoid

them

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Introduction

• The statistics say 80% of jobs are obtained through networking– According to some sources, this number is even higher!

• Social media & online communities have made networking across the globe easier for today’s job seekers

• Having connections at various companies can help you learn about unadvertised job openings, get employee referrals & land a new job quicker than other job search tactics

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What is Networking?

• The exchange of information or services among individuals

• The cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business

• Should be focused on creating mutually beneficial relationships among individuals– You need to provide value to your contacts before asking

for something from them

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Common Networking Mistakes

• Thinking the amount of connections you have trumps the quality of each connection

• Going into a networking opportunity unprepared or without goals in mind

• Thinking you have to be a certain kind of person to be a successful networker

• Failing to follow-up after a connection is made• Staying inside your comfort zone & missing

opportunities• Not providing value to your contacts before

asking for something in return

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How to Avoid Networking Mistakes

• Practice, practice, practice – you’ll never get better at networking if you don’t get out there and do it

• Have confidence in yourself• Be open to new opportunities

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Networking Tip: Start Small

• Networking isn’t always about cold calling & attending events alone– Instead, start with someone you do know & ask for an

introduction to someone they know

– Takes the pressure off for shy networkers

– Feels less awkward than reaching out to someone you don’t know at all

– Don’t forget to provide value to the person you’re asking for help from

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Networking Tip: Be Yourself

• Many people think of networkers as “schmoozers”– However, successful networkers are not in it just for

themselves, they want to help others

• You shouldn’t try to be someone you’re not when meeting new people and networking

• Be yourself & be open to meeting new people– It’s ok if you feel reserved or awkward, it will become

easier

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Networking Tip: Share Your Passions

• Talking about subjects you’re passionate about makes you more interesting & engaging

• It will be easier to converse with others if the topic is something you’re truly interested in– Attending conferences/event pertaining to your interests &

industry can be a great way to share your passion with others

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Networking Tip: Create a Goal

• If you’re attending a event, conference or meeting, having a clear plan of action can make you feel more focused– Who will be attending?

– Who would you like to meet?

– What will you talk with them about?

– What value can you provide them (a networking contact, business connection, etc.)?

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Networking Tip: Show Up Prepared

• Just like going into a job interview, a networking event can be less stressful if you’ve come prepared– Think of ice-breaker questions you might ask others to get

a conversation going

– Have your elevator pitch ready

– Think about what you might be asked

• How will you answer questions about your current career status, goals, etc.?

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Networking Tip: Follow-Up

• Follow through with your promises when you meet others– Did you tell someone you met you’d send them an article

you read? Email them as soon as possible with the information

– Makes you look credible & reliable

– Additionally, gives you a chance to keep in touch with that individual & continue building the relationship

– Keeps you fresh in their mind

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Networking Tip: Not Everyone Will Want to Help

• Most job seekers fear of networking is meeting people who are rude or unwilling to help them– Accept that there are some negative people out there that

can’t or won’t help you

– People are busy

– Move on from rejection

– Don’t take it personally

• Remember that most people want to help others because it’s human nature to do so

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Networking Tip: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

• Taking risks can propel your job search & career much farther than staying inside your small comfort zone

• Other people might be as uncomfortable as you making the initial contact– Remember that it will be worth it once you’ve made a great

new connection or relationship

• Try new things & be open-minded

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Networking Tip: Volunteer Your Time

• Volunteering is a fulfilling way to meet new people & use your skills while job seeking

• You’ll inevitably meet new people & make networking connections in a low-pressure environment

• Increases your visibility• Gives you something in common with others

you’ll meet at the organization

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Networking Tip: Be a Valuable Resource

• Help out others as much as possible– Share contacts at companies

– Suggest business connections

– Share advice & tips

– Offer your expertise & skills

• Makes you visible • People will be more likely to share information

with you because you’ve helped them first

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Networking Tip: Quality Over Quantity

• The amount of contacts you have (or make) shouldn’t be the sole focus of your networking efforts

• Instead of meeting dozens of new people, strive for a few valuable relationships

• The better your relationship, the more likely the individual will help you out, give you a referral, etc.

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Networking Tip: Regularly Network

• Don’t just network when you need it – such as during a job search or career transition– You’ll be missing out on valuable opportunities if you do

this

– Instead, always be on the lookout for great contacts & continuously grow your network organically

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Networking Tip: Listen

• Listening is an important part of relationship-building

• Don’t just talk about yourself• Pay attention to things others say & look for

ways to help them in their job search or career

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