Networking tricks, Gosh, darn it, its Tough being an Adult
Last night I attended an event that seems to have become the latest networking craze in the unemployed world: drink alcohol, commiserate with other unemployed souls, and then think that somehow this is going to translate into a job offer. Someone wins a lottery everyday I suppose, but I don’t count on that to pay my mortgage.
Where is it written that if you bring unemployed people together they are some how going to provide each other job offers? Yet in city after city, communities all over the country that is exactly what happens. Invariably these groups use the word or derivation of “executive” in the title.
Networking is critical in the successful job search; unfortunately few people do it effectively. It has never made sense to me that people would network with people that they are not targeting for employment. That being said,
Rule #1: Target your networking. That means the people, places and events. In targeting people they should be people who are actually doing the work that you are pursuing. They should be employed or somehow connected to the company or organization that interests you. The people should be the hiring agents or have significant relationships with those who do.
Volunteering for events connected to an organization’s mission is a terrific way of making a positive impression. Participating on boards, government, and not-for-profit or in the private sector associates you with, while building credibility in the field of pursuit.
Networking events that promote or allow consumption of alcohol or activities that could either embarrass a participant or observer leave too much of an opportunity to hold back your goals.
Rule #2: Formulate an agenda for each networking event. Make sure that you are clear in your specific goal and do not leave until it is accomplished.
Rule #3: Have questions prepared. These should be sincere questions that the answers provide you with valuable knowledge. Listen to what other people are saying; verify that you understand other’s messages.
Rule #4: Be polite. If you have questions about that please refer to Robert Fulghum’s “All I Ever Really Needed to Know I Learned in Kindergarten”.
Rule #5: Carry cards to hand out with your contact information.
Finally,
Rule #6: Follow up! Follow up! Follow up.
