Last week we discussed that networking is THE most successful way to find a new job, in fact over 75% of jobseekers use this method successfully! Quite simply an employer is FAR more likely to hire someone who has been referred to them over a stranger. Networking and creating meaningful business connections is the best way to make sure you are at the forefront when applying for a job!
Last week, I touched on the fact that there is a right way and wrong way to network; this week we’ll give you some great tips and advice to make sure you capitalise on your networking experiences!
What is networking?
Simply speaking networking is connecting with people with a view to mutual interests. This is quite an important distinction – to be successful at networking, you need to really grasp that it is a two way street.
Why is networking a failure for many people?
If you go into networking only talking about and thinking about yourself, you can pretty much rest assured that people won’t want to help you. Too many people go to networking events and functions and spend the whole time talking about themselves. This actually stops you from being memorable – people remember people who make them feel good about themselves!
How do you network successfully?
The BEST way to do this is to get people talking (lets face it, no matter how shy or outgoing we are, we are all flattered when someone wants to know about us or our opinion!). So ask questions! Just remember that personal questions are confronting for new people, start with work or industry related questions and then adapt to the conversation – that is, as they talk about something, ask them to elaborate!
What are some great networking tips?
- Approach networking with genuine intent to connect, if you are fake or pretentious or insincere, forget it. For networking to WORK you must be genuine!
- If you are shy – use social networking, FaceBook, Twitter and LinkedIn are all good ways to find people with similar philosophies!
- Capitalise on networking, remember the concept of 6 degrees, the person you are talking to might just know another person who can help you (or whom you can help!),
- Attend events – I know, this seems self explanatory, BUT what I mean is a networking event can lead to a social situation, as much as you may feel nervous or self conscious, do your very best to accept invitations that your gut tells you would be good. Shake off the nerves – even the most confident of people have them!
- Be generous! The best way to start networking is to think of ways you can help others! I am a genuine believer in Karma – your expertise or assistance will be rewarded!
- Follow up and keep in touch – now this is a delicate balance, don’t drive people insane, but if you say you will do something, be sure to follow up!
- Lastly, the best start you can make networking is to ask the question “tell me about you, what do you do?”… it’s a great conversation starter!!
Although many people feel shy and apprehensive when they first start networking, it is definitely one of the best things you can do for your career! My jobs have always been word of mouth because sales is a networking industry – don’t get me wrong, even though I am an extrovert, I still get nervous and self conscious, but the best way to overcome this is to ask others to tell you about themselves!!
Got any tips that you would like to share with us? How have you successfully used networking? We’d love to hear your success stories!!
