HOW BEST TO NETWORK

 

Most job seekers completely ignore how important it is to network when job seeking and not all who do know its value, know how to network effectively.  You can network anywhere at all but when it comes to making contacts in business, you need to be at the right places.  Go to shows, exhibitions, conferences, dinner parties, birthday parties and anywhere where people may gather  together.  Getting out there is part of how to network effectively, but not all.

Those of you to whom networking comes easy, we salute you.  However, for the rest of us, herewith some tips on how to network well.

 

• In its simplest form, remember you are networking when you ask a question such as, “Who would be the best person to help me…?” or “Can you recommend a good electrician?”

• Once you get in touch with the relevant person, like the “best person” or the “good electrician”, you have accessed someone else’s network and they, yours;

• Once you have met someone, ensure you exchange cards on saying goodbye.  You will need them later for following up.

• Networking is a positive and pro-active way of getting yourself out there and seen, it is not a dirty word!

• To be effective as a networker, remember to help others by being cooperative and communicative.  You will be remembered and helped in return.  If you are obstructive for other networkers and/or do nothing to help them, they will wipe you from their list of potentials and forget about you;

• Networking is the doorway to information by way of the people you network with, thus, the wider your network, the wider your access to knowledge – and we all know that knowledge is power!

• Networking can be the gateway for job seekers finding a job they would not have otherwise come across.  As there are job seekers networking, so there are recruiters seeking applicants in your network.  There is every chance someone in your network will know of a job that would suit you and could put you forward for;

• Take the time to get to know your contacts, socialise with them outside of business, make friends with them. 

• Networking is about access to and the sharing of information, it is not about you or the people you are meeting.  However, a good networker will spend time listening to their contacts and show an interest in who they are and what they are looking for;

• Maintain regular contact so that both sides will feel able to call for advice or support.

• Respect those in the network, they will respect you for it.

• Give those in your network your time and expect nothing in return;

 

In short, be friendly, approachable and knowledgeable and you will build your network.