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Job networking is difficult because people expect so much to the point where it’s expectations are unrealistic.
Although referrals account for more than 60% of people finding jobs, networking is hard work. Not to mention there needs to be a mind shift in the way we use it.
Networking should be a way of life, not just a pill in the medicine cabinet.
If used right, job networking will be our primary career tool. You can’t take control of your career without it. Since it’s a little easier to initiate and sustain relationships anywhere in the world, there are some ways to foster useful long-term relationships:
1. Investment in yourself
Free is good and is encouraged, but when you research and are convinced paying is more than worth the value, then pay. There are countless stories of how iron sharpens iron when people are exchanging value with each other. It’s even better when one is out serving the other. Conferences, workshops, dinners, coffee, are all great–when it costs your something for the long term career goal. You don’t pay to meet the people, and you pay for the value people offer.
Listen to: Modern Networking Manners for Your Career
2. Give without measure
The people who I see with growing networks, who are always getting feedback and opportunities, and have set themselves up as the go-to insider or expert, are individuals who are very generous. There is no science to giving other than receivers are often more than willing to give back. The people we often see on social media who are successful in my eyes are the ones who have been givers for many years.
3. Widen the net
Usually, this would mean the number of people instead of diverse. In this case, a different network is everything. In your network, striving to have executive connections are as meaningful as the cab driver. Being considerate same says everything about your character people will need to know. We learn from a variety of resources, and somewhere along the way it is very useful.
4. Find out what works
Your network is a dynamic resource and not a static one. Whether it is a phone to people once a month or viewing your timeline, people are often sharing their successes. If you pay attention, there are golden nuggets you can apply to your career.
Some are willing to tell you how he or she got a raise, or negotiated their contract, or got a referral from someone they have yet to meet in person.
5. Challenge and be challenged
Back to my first point where I mention “iron sharpens iron.” When done in a healthy way, finding out the depth of disagreeing can outreach our intent and extend our learning. It does hurt to lower the defenses when someone questions a resource or our thinking about a strategy or procedure. Although it only works with people willing to respond to the rules of engagement, you’ll need to relate to everyone differently.
6. Treating people as individuals and not as a club
Honestly, no one is waiting with bated breath for what you have to say. You’re competing for attention (or more) like everyone else. It’s impressive when you remember people by name and not by group, network, association, or means of connections.
7. Celebrate their success
Write an update congratulating them, lifting them up (and only them). People will remember how you celebrate them. Can you do it without expecting anything back? It’s hard, but it will pay off.
8. Mourn with them too
People need support during hard times or tragedies too! Some people don’t know what to say, and I know it’s hard. A simple, “Sending positive thoughts your way…” or “Prayers for you and your family…” mean so much during those times. Losing a job is similar to losing family. It’s natural to mourn a lost job (or at least the friendships left behind.
9. Invite them into your world a little more
I love it when colleagues let me know when they are coming to town even if I can’t always get to them. The relationship means much more when you meet them in person, or they remember personal milestones (other than birthdays).
The goal in owning the trajectory of your career is mainly through the connections you keep going. If you are job networking just for the next job, you’ll find it frustrating and hard to find relationships productive. It is about professional relationships thriving through service.
About Mark Anthony Dyson
I am the "The Voice of Job Seekers!" I offer compassionate career and job search advice as I hack and re-imagine the job search process. You need to be "the prescription to an employer's job description." You must be solution-oriented and work in positions in companies where you are the remedy. Your job search must be a lifestyle, and your career must be in front of you constantly. You can no longer shed your aspirations at the change seasons. There are strengths you have that need constant use and development. Be sure you sign up to download my E-Book, "421 Modern Job Search Tips 2021!" You can find my career advice and work in media outlets such as Forbes, Inc., Fast Company, Harvard Business Review, Glassdoor, and many other outlets.