Networking Tips for the Novice Networker
Today's economic environment has proven that almost every industry and profession provides little job security. Whether we work for a Fortune 500 corporation or start-up business, we are all "self-employed". Corporate downsizing, outsourcing and consolidation are ever increasing the volatility in our employment and the frequency of our job changes. Networking, both social and professional, is one of the most important skills you need to survive these uncertain times.
Modern technology has created a variety of ways for us to build our social and professional networks. All you need is a laptop and wifi to make new "friends" or "connections" every day via Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and the many other networking websites available to us. According to the Wall Street Journal, leading networking websites attract approximately 110 million unique visitors each month (and growing fast). While these virtual connections are helpful, they have become commoditized due to their saturation on the internet.
Building your social and professional capital is as important today as it has ever been. You should consider your network to be as valuable as your education, industry certifications and professional skill set when it comes to career advancement / placement. While virtual networks are good, tangible networks are better. As the popularity of social media continues to grow, I believe that it will only revive the need for face-to-face networking as a means to differentiate oneself from the rest. While it's easy to 'Accept a Friend', it's certainly worth the effort it takes to meet people in-person. Join networking groups, professional associations and social clubs; even something as simple as volunteering can introduce you to new and interesting people.
There are quite a few networking organizations in Chicago, so be sure that you choose your networking organizations and events carefully. Just like on the internet, there is a lot of 'clutter' out there. Be wary of organizations that only offer opportunities to meet at a bar, drink for two hours and exchange. As much fun as it can be, you are far more likely to walk away from the event with a hangover than you are good business contacts. When you barely remember the conversations you had with people the next morning, having the business cards in your pocket doesn't do you a lot of good. Do your research, and get involved in organizations that provide content-based programming. Events with a speaker or workshop almost always have a networking component to them, and you are certainly more likely to meet (and remember meeting) quality people while learning something new in the process.
A few additional quick tips to help you develop your network:
- Expand your horizons. Meet people from different companies / industries. You never know when you might consider switching career paths or might meet a potential customer / client.
- Never eat alone. It's a bit cliché, but lunch and afternoon coffee breaks are great opportunities to arrange quick meetings with new contacts. Take full advantage of this downtime.
- Scratch their back. Always look for opportunities to help the people that you need help from. If you can make a connection for them, they are more likely to return the favor.
- Ask questions. It's not an interrogation, but make sure to ask new people you meet about their background (ex. Where else have you worked?) and current involvement in the community (ex. What groups are you a member of?). You never know how a person's past might help you in the present.
- Get involved. You can often meet some of the best business connections by getting involved in a volunteer project or non-profit board.
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