Networking Randomness

I remember after graduating from college the job market seemed open and endless. Every opportunity was available, only I realized that I didn't know where to start. A senior capstone course was a requirement which detailed the steps in finding a job. We were walked through the process, starting from researching prospective companies of interest, to tailoring a resume and cover letter, to follow-ups and thank-you notes. It was a tedious experience, not to say it had no value, but it felt like something was still missing.

Interesting, I look back on the experience and the value of networking, as tool for job hunting, was never taken seriously. There was little emphasis regarding networking opportunities at social gatherings. Some discussion on how to present oneself at these types of engagements was shared, but never on the importance and marketability that was available by making worthwhile contacts.

The reality is most jobs will come from contacts you know, but most importantly those that know you!

I for one never offer a recommendation or vouch for a person that I do not "truly" know. If a person is simply an acquaintance I refer them to others who can give them a better reference without turning them away completely. In today's world a persons recommendation can go a long way; same with a person's reputation. I have no interest in ruining either in order to do someone a favor.

So what do I suggest?

I've always been a big advocate of networking both on and offline. I think a majority of what the person is looking for determines which type is going to be more effective. For example, when I applied to work for an online gaming site they wanted to see samples of my online writing to get a feel of my experience. Luckily I had already established an online reputation for good writing, being attentive to deadlines, and an ability to manage other news writers for online sites. On the other hand, when applying for a job as a Design Manager my network of contacts were able to speak highly of my experience having worked with me in person.

Every person you meet, every function you go to, every opportunity you have to expand your skill level is an opportunity to network and learn. Most people treat networking much like speed dating, as if there were some imaginary timer ticking away to see how many people a person can meet. You've seen these individuals before. They slither through functions with business cards in hand. They strike quick conversations and before you can blink a business card is being shoved into your hand. This behavior will occur throughout the function until a business card is in every persons hand possible. This is NOT networking.

Networking is a relationship that takes time, honesty, and mutual respect. If you approach someone with an agenda of getting something out of them, most will simply turn you away. It's obvious and not appreciated. Find a mutual interest, whether it's wine, hobbies, food, travel, etc. Finding common ground is the foundation for great conversation. If you find yourself in a group make sure the conversation includes all. In the end, if you've acquired two or three contacts, then you succeeded, because in this case quality always trumps quantity.

Networking in the online world is very similar. While people cannot directly see you, through your words and actions you are creating an online reputation. If you are looking at establishing yourself as a professional, don't direct people to a Myspace page that is filled with indecent pictures and comments. Create professional looking pages on any social network site (Facebook, LinkedIn, Myspace). Take part in discussions on sites you follow regularly. With all the fantastic blogs out there representing almost every industry, find some you like and become active. As you develop yourself over time, you will meet other people who will connect with you to chat online, email, and/or in person at conferences and conventions.

The bottom line is knowing people is great, having business cards is great, but the real question is...do they KNOW you? If you're just a name dropper, you will be discovered sooner or later, and nobody wants to be "that guy." Seek to build your relationships by being genuine with your contacts. The payoff will be worth it!

So how do you network? What do you find to be most helpful to you when meeting new people?


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