New Ways to Network
Networking is not just about collection business cards. It’s an ongoing process for acquiring knowledge and potentially that great new job. But these days, it’s definitely a two-way street. That’s because you probably have as much to give as you want to take because of the valuable information and experience you have gained over the years.
Here are some other creative ways to network your way into a golden career opportunity. And don’t wait until you’ve lost a job or need to make a change to put your networking skills into practice. It’s also an excellent way to gather information about your industry and learn about new products and opportunities.
NET-working: Job-seekers today have an array of useful electronic tools in the web. The web allows you to nurture a powerful network of contacts. New online tools have made it even easier to get your name out and send your resume, and even photo, around the world. It’s easy to meet people in your industry through online professional chat rooms, websites, newsgroups, corporate alumni sites, and more. Don’t forget “search” and “Google.” If you want to meet other teachers, type “teacher” into the search box and find local directories for teacher organizations. Then write to each one. Email is another great online tool: a quick thank-you makes an especially strong impact in these busy times.
A New Twist on the Rotary Breakfast: While Rotary and Chamber of Commerce networking breakfasts or dinners may be a bit out of date, there is a new twist on this old standby in the form of structured networking meetings. In these meetings, executives stand up and identify their areas of expertise and how they can help the group. They may also ask how the group can help them. The benefits to you are that you get to listen to every person at the meeting. Later you can also offer up your personal pitch and even ask for a critique of it, while also perhaps getting your name on a contact list.
Perfect Your Pitch: Speaking of pitches, no matter which networking method you use, develop a 20-30-second "pitch" about yourself and what you do. Focus on your unique combination of specific skills, knowledge and experience. Example pitch: "I am a copywriter with five years of experience writing specifically for the Internet. Before that, I wrote everything from video scripts and ads to magazine articles on a range of subjects. Before that I was a creative director for 10 years managing a small group of writers and art directors.” This type of pitch signals to listeners that you are focused and waste no time getting to the point.
Join a Job Club: Or even start one. Have weekly or monthly meetings with 10-20 other people to share leads, provide support and practice skills like interviewing and negotiating salary. Job clubs are usually free. You'll find job clubs all around you. Contact your local library, community groups and state employment agency for help in finding one that matches your needs. If your city publishes a free employment weekly newspaper, be sure to check the announcements section to find job clubs; you may also find them listed in your phone book.
Start a Special Interest Club: Start a club “for new mothers” or “for recent college grads” or “for fans of Jane Austen” that meets weekly or monthly in your home. Send invitations for friends to join and ask them to invite their friends, co-workers, relatives or neighbors. Some newspapers and libraries will post club meetings in their calendar listings and on bulletin boards. Invite speakers. Meet in a home or in a public place such as a local pub, bar or restaurant.
Hang Out: A great way to meet interesting people is to hang out in interesting places, like the cafeteria of universities and hospitals or at bookstores and libraries. Smile and don't be afraid to say hello to someone who is reading something you are interested in. If you are a travel agent, hang out in the travel section and when you see someone reading about traveling, don't be afraid to hand them your business card. And go to the same stores at the same time each week. You might start running into the same people over and over again, further expanding your network.
Getting to Know You: Make valuable contacts by getting to know your neighbors and co-workers. Plan a block party. Invite neighbors over for a 'getting-to-know-you' party. Have a dinner party at your house and ask all your friends to bring two friends that you've never met before. Get to know the people in your office building. Offer them discounts on your services and products. Give them a box of muffins or donuts as an introduction to you and your business. Take time to have lunch with them. Volunteer to help plan parties and other events at work. Make it a point to know at least one person in every department of your company.
Attend Industry Events: No matter what industry you’re in, there is no doubt some type of regular event where potential employers gather. Identify events that will most likely help your job search. The more focused the event, the better. Again, if you are an Internet copywriter, go to an Internet copywriting or marketing organization event, not just a general advertising or marketing event. You can find events advertised in trade journals, the business section of the Sunday paper, or search for them online at Google.com.
Remember that networking is better used when you’re not already out of job. Use it while still employed to keep that base of contacts fresh and fruitful “if” you need it. For more information on how to be prepared for the unexpected, like being out of work, visit Farmers.com.