Network your way to your next job
Mention the word networking and most Brits will be rushing for cover. Talking to complete strangers? Touting for work? Perhaps advertising your jobless status? Most people would rather eat their own hair rather than have to endure a networking event!Networking - why bother?
Well, dislike the idea as you may, networking is pretty necessary when it comes to finding your next job, building up a client portfolio if you're going to go down the consulting route or setting up your own business. Our American cousins seem to have little in the way of inhibition when it comes to such matters. They generally view our modesty and reserve with bewilderment. Still, you don't have to have your teeth whitened, your face fixed in a dazzling smile or change your nationality to be a successful networker. However, you do need to have faith in yourself, what you have to offer and the goodwill of others.
Can I do it?
Most individuals can be very reluctant salespeople when it comes to something they don't believe or have pride in. But, when they find themselves needing to 'sell' or talk about something they like, feel passionate about, are proud of and believe in - then they're comfortable, animated, persuasive and generally successful because people know they're genuine and worthy of their trust. You probably recognise that scenario too, so start looking for something to sell positively - like yourself, your new employer's goods and services, or your own new business ideas!
If you hate networking ask yourself, "What's my problem?" Are you shy? Embarrassed? Lacking confidence? Once you can be honest enough with yourself about what the root cause of your reticence or reluctance is, you can get on with overcoming it and moving on.
Top tips for successful networking
- NEW - Linkedin members can now apply to join our very own New Life Network networking and discussion group - add it to your profile now
- You might need some help a friend or a trusted adviser to deal with your networking skills so make sure you line someone up to talk to and coach you. Sometimes you just need a bit of help summoning up your first spark of courage to make that first telephone call, write that first letter, make that first move.
- Once you gain some confidence, keep going until you start getting the contacts you need.
- Avoid being fake and avoid other fakers. Most people can smell insincerity a mile off.
- You can live off the warm glow a successful contact can give you for a while and use it to find others.
- Know what you want out of networking contacts. Stay focused about getting it and don't be afraid to ask.The worst thing is that they can say no. It's not like asking for directions in your car!
- If one person can't help you, when they warm to you, they can often put you in touch with someone else they know who can help you
- Don't be afraid to say "Bob (or whomever) said I should speak to you" if he actually did!
- There are many networking groups out there so you do need to be choosy - check out our selections in the listings below
- Try to go to initial meetings, for free as a guest if you can, before you pay any subscriptions. You do need to try networking opportunities first. You will often reduce the number of groups you are a member of by half by the time it comes around to the renewal period
- Look carefully for what you get for your money - information services, networking opportunities, ads on their web site, the ability to post notices, a newsletter or magazine, cheap conferences, discounts you can use in your business e.g. insurance, social events etc, the ability to post some letters after your name such as MCIM, MCMI etc.
- Always remember to take plenty of business cards to networking events - hand them out as well collecting them. Then follow up on them!
- Even if you don't have a 'business' to put on your card, have some cards with your contact details and key skill areas on anyway to hand out. You can get them made very inexpensively on the internet.
- If you know of any more good networking groups or tips please send them to editor@newlifenetwork.co.uk
Useful Networking Resources
You can download and read what Andrew Taylor has to say on the topic in the Aftershock archive or read some of our other excellent networking career articles below.
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Aftershock - Networking for beginners Dec 05 - 20kb Download this file |
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"Energy and persistence conquer all things." Benjamin Franklin (1706 - 1790) |