Networking for Jobs
The “What”: What do you mean by networking for jobs?
There are many ways to find your next job. One of the best ways to do that would be to be hired through your existing network.
However, networks don’t just happen by themselves. It takes time, energy and tenacity to continually improve your network and expand your influence.
Let’s use DxDt as a quick example. Our number one source of recruiting and business development is referrals. In other words, we work through our network and ask individuals to connect us with other individuals they know. Obviously, we offer a referral bonus to make it worth-while for those individuals but you won’t have to. After all, you are looking for a new career for yourself and not someone else.
The “Who”: Who should I network with?
1. Family members (that’s a given!)
2. Current or former colleagues at work.
3. Friends or acquaintances and neighbors.
4. People you meet through trade associations or professional organizations.
5. College peers, college friends, roommates.
6. Individuals you meet at social clubs, events, sports teams, school organizations and any type of hobby group.
7. Members of your religious organization.
8. Former or current clients.
9. Strangers you meet on vacation trips, parties etc.
10. Professional organizations like PEOs, staffing agencies, HR consultant firms and recruiters.
The “How”: How do I go about networking?
Networking is a way of life, not a thing you do only when you need a job or need a new client. To be successful at this you need to be a networker. You need to be open to meeting new people and creating new relationships. You don’t have to be an extravert or naturally charming to be a good networker. You simply need to understand that networking has untold benefits and you must be willing to at least listen to individuals who want to tell you about themselves.
Throughout your life you will add new contacts to your rolodex, reconnect with old friends and rekindle the light of partnership with those you have worked with before. Most professionals only promote and work their networks when they are desperate for their new position. They use this method as a last resort. That is not the way to do it!!
Your network needs be the first method you use to seek a new job. Before you post your resume online contact, either by phone or e-mail, every person in your network who may be able to assist in your search.
The question is How do you develop a network that you can use in your future job search?
1. Keep track of your contacts: It doesn’t matter how many people you meet. If you don’t have a way to keep track of their information, it won’t matter. Long ago, in a time far, far away professionals uses a thing called a “Rolodex”. Today they may use something like an MS Outlook or other specialized programs. Whatever it is, make sure it gives you the ability to take notes.
2. Meet new people: Always try to put yourself in a position where you may meet someone new. Go to new events, attend seminars, go to company parties and make an occasional visit to career fairs and Business Expos.
3. Stay in touch: A good network doesn’t mean a large network. A good network is a deep network. Take depth into consideration, not just the number of people you know. How well do you know them? When was the last time you had lunch or coffee?
4. Know me: How well does your network know you? Did you introduce yourself well when you first met? Did you ask for their attention and did you keep it? Do they know that you currently work with XYZ Corp.? Your network has to know you and like what they see.
5. The Golden Rule: In the same manner that you would like to utilize your contacts in the future, let them utilize you now. Expect the same treatment either way. If you help others, they will help you in return. If you ignore them then when the tables turn they will ignore you.
The “Where”: Where do I network?
The simple fact is many professionals meet individuals who can help them or who do generally help in the least likely places. Therefore you must be vigilant. Do you know all your neighbors? If not, go knock on their door right now and say hello.
Here’s a list of some of the most important places for professional networking.
1. Work: Getting to know the people at work is essential. Get to know not only the people you work with but anyone within the company.
2. Professional Associations: This would be a great way to meet your competitors and other companies that are within your line of work.
3. Business expos, trade shows, seminars and Career fairs: These are an excellent way to not only develop your Boss’s business but to meet professionals who want to network with you.
4. Career Professionals: Let’s be realistic. Working with recruiters, Headhunters or HR/Career Professionals is one of the best ways for professional networking. These individuals spend their time and energy meeting people. On a daily basis an average recruiter will talk to three new people (not verified and not based on any actual data, just a guess!) Develop a good relationship with them and they will connect you with others in your field if you ask.
5. Alumni associations, personal clubs, social event: A great way to network is to meet professionals or people you’ve known in the past and not initially develop a professional relationship. It could be that you have something in common and you can take that as a starting point for a new relationship. For example you may have gone to the same college and you just met at the homecoming alumni event. That could be a great relationship in the future.
The “Why”: Why should I take networking so seriously?
Why go through all this trouble? The advantages of networking properly are numerous. Many professionals are aiming for leadership positions later on their careers. With a strong network, not only can you maximize the opportunity for leadership roles but it can help grow your business. Here are some of the reasons why a good network is essential to professionals today.
1. You can find your next job with a strong network.
2. You can find out what’s going on in your market and have a sense of your industry economy.
3. you can partner up and start your own business if you have a great new idea.
4. you can use your network to help your own business by recruiting from within it.
5. you can meet people who share your feelings and background and eventually become friends.
There are many ways, methods and reasons to network. We just listed a few that don’t really even amount to 20% of the whole story. Ultimately, it is your responsibility as a professional to develop a network. We can only advise you as to how, but it is you who must take action, provide your own job security and look for the future.
This article is written as a guide to improve your chances of success towards your next career move. Please use in combination with common sense.
Joe Shaheen is a Sr. Recruiting consultant with DxDt Staffing Services. To comment on this article or to request other articles please fill out our online form.
This is unique content, owned by DxDt staffing and Professional Services. Please do not distribute without written consent by DxDt Staffing and Professional Services.
- Career Center -