Job hunting quite often isn’t just about what you know, but who you know. Networking has evolved from a clichéd buzzword into a vital, dynamic skill that professionals use for career growth and for finding opportunities. This week, we take a closer look at networking and we explore how strategic connections can significantly boost your job search, and learn how you can incorporate it into your own professional life.
The job market is like an iceberg. What you see posted on job portals and company websites, is the 'visible job market,' and that represents the tip of the iceberg. Below the surface is the 'hidden job market,' where opportunities are typically not advertised and therefore inaccessible to most job seekers. Access to this hidden job market can often be unlocked through networking.
Quality Over Quantity
Networking is not about merely collecting contacts on LinkedIn. Not every connection will be relevant to your career goals or industry. I know many people who often “cull” their LinkedIn contacts, distilling them down to a smaller, more focused network. By having a more organised network, you can focus on building relationships with individuals and organisations that align with your career objectives. A smaller more focused curated network will provide genuine, mutually beneficial relationships, sharing knowledge, experiences, and resources, in turn, gaining insights, introductions, and opportunities.
Consider it strategic networking, directing your attention to cultivating relationships with individuals that may be working in your desired job, have similar interests, or belong to industries or companies you're interested in.
How to Network Effectively
The first step in networking is identifying who is in your network already. Start by mapping out your existing connections—colleagues, friends, mentors, former employers—and then think about how you can expand from there.
From this exercise, identify key individuals who could potentially assist you in your job search. These could be influencers in your industry, hiring managers, or people who work in companies where you're interested in working. LinkedIn, Fishbowl, professional conferences, and industry-specific online forums are great places to start looking.
Remember, networking is not a one-way street. It's about establishing genuine relationships, not just reaching out when you need a favour. Offer help, share valuable insights, and be a resource for your connections as well. Mutual respect and assistance are the foundations of a strong network. It’s equally about offering your own expertise, resources, or support when others need it. Networking should be a genuinely symbiotic relationship that will naturally lead to more robust and lasting connections.
Networking Conversations
When initiating networking conversations, be authentic and show genuine interest in the other person’s experiences and insights. Do your homework. A simple "I've been following your work and would love to learn more about it" can work wonders. When they respond, listen attentively, ask insightful questions, and share relevant information about your own experiences and goals.
At the end of the conversation, show appreciation for their time and insight. If you can, offer your help in return, whether now or in the future. Being yourself, with humility will go a long way.
Nurture Your Networking Relationships
Networking is not a one-time activity - it requires ongoing nurturing and maintenance to develop mutually beneficial long-term connections. Here are some tips on how to actively nurture your professional network:
Follow Up After Initial Meetings
- Send a follow-up email to new connections expressing your appreciation for their time and the conversation. Share any relevant articles, resources, or insights discussed.
- Connect with them on LinkedIn to continue the relationship.
- Add them to your mailing list for industry newsletters, invites to virtual events, etc.
Maintain Regular Contact
- Check-in periodically with your connections to build rapport. Ask how they are doing, and share recent news or achievements.
- Forward interesting articles and resources related to their work or interests. Comment on their social media posts.
- Congratulate your connections on work anniversaries, promotions, new ventures, etc. Recognise their achievements both privately and publicly.
Deepen the Relationship Over Time
- Schedule meetups such as a coffee chat or lunch meeting to catch up in person when appropriate
- Offer to introduce them to someone in your network who could be beneficial to them. Look for opportunities to collaborate and add value.
- When you need advice or assistance, don't hesitate to reach out, but avoid only contacting your network when you need something.
Expand Your Network Community
- Attend industry events, conferences, and trade shows. Interact with new people and collect contact information.
- Join professional associations and online communities to meet new contacts with common interests.
- Follow up with event participants you had good conversations with. Connect on social media.
The goal is to build lasting relationships that are mutually beneficial over the long term. With nurturing and care, your network will reward you with connections, opportunities, and personal and professional growth.
Overcoming Networking Challenges
One of the most common networking challenges is the fear of reaching out. It's normal to feel hesitant about approaching someone you admire professionally, especially when you're asking for advice or help. But remember, most professionals have been in your shoes before, and many are more than willing to help.
If you feel nervous, start small. Practice your networking skills with friends and trusted colleagues before reaching out to bigger contacts. And remember, the worst-case scenario is that they'll say no—which leaves you exactly where you started, with one more experience under your belt. You have nothing to lose!
Here’s a 5 step networking toolkit to help you prepare for networking success.
Create an Elevator Pitch
- Craft a 20-30 second elevator pitch that concisely communicates who you are, what you do, and what you aspire to achieve.
- Focus on showcasing your value proposition - the unique perspective and skills you bring to the table.
- Practice delivering your pitch aloud until you can express it clearly and confidently.
Build Your Online Presence
- Develop a polished, keyword-optimized LinkedIn profile highlighting your background, skills, achievements and interests.
- Consider launching a professional website, online portfolio or blog to showcase your work.
- Maintain an industry-focused Twitter account to share insights and build your reputation.
Participate Actively
- Identify relevant conferences, trade shows, networking events and professional associations in your field.
- Follow thought leaders and peers on social media channels like Twitter and LinkedIn.
- Engage regularly by commenting on posts, joining groups and attending local meet-ups.
Implement a Follow-Up System
- Collect contact details of promising connections.
- Send follow-up emails within 24 hours when you meet someone new.
- Connect on LinkedIn and continue the conversation through periodic check-ins.
- Schedule coffee meetings or calls to strengthen promising relationships.
The key is to implement a consistent networking system that allows you to meet new people, nurture relationships over time and continually expand your professional community. With practice and consistency, you can build a network that will support your career goals.
Final Thoughts
Remember, networking isn't about the number of connections you have, but the quality of those connections. A few meaningful relationships can be far more beneficial than a multitude of surface-level contacts.
Embrace the networking process, even though it can be challenging and time-consuming. Networking is an ongoing process, not just something you do when you're actively seeking a job. It's about building and sustaining professional relationships that can mutually benefit all parties involved. Remember, your network is not just a group of people who are useful to you; they are your allies in the professional world. By strategically fostering these connections, you can propel your job search, unlocking doors to opportunities that may have otherwise been hidden.
Good luck!
Written by Man Wong
Cofounder of CandidateX