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Developing Personal Networks
Understand what it is |
Networking is an intentional process of developing relationships between individuals to exchange information, advice, resources, and support. It is a long-term investment - conscious, ongoing and reciprocal. Networking is not spontaneous, unplanned or manipulative. |
Know your Purpose |
There are multiple benefits in having a well-developed network. Some key elements might include:
- Gain information on something specific.
- Obtain straight feedback.
- Demonstrate strengths.
- Find support for an idea.
- Develop new contacts.
- Gain visibility.
- Learn or develop a skill.
- Hear about specific opportunities.
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How Others can Help |
While your current focus might be on developing contacts to help you find a job, future efforts might be something else entirely. Keeping in mind your network is an ongoing endeavor, make it a practice to know the strengths and abilities of those in your network. Examples might be:
- Sponsor
- Teach
- Inform
- Support
- Advise
- Connect
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What you Bring to Relationships |
Networking is not a one-way street. It is a series of valuable relationships that require ongoing attention. A key component of networking is reciprocation; others help you, and you help them in return. Some ways you might help are:
- Providing valuable introductions
- Increasing the scope of other's networks
- Offering original ideas
- Teaching a skill
- Lending support to other's activities
- Reducing another's workload
- Contributing objective perspective
- Showing appreciation
- Making recommendations
- Providing feedback
- Sharing unique abilities
These are just a few ideas. Perhaps you can think of more. |
Keep In Mind |
Remember this is a give and take relationship. Success in networking depends on personal commitment, dedication and follow-up. With that in mind, here are some important keys to creating successful networking relationships. |
Do |
Don't |
- Keep notes (i.e., a card file system. spreadsheet or database).
- Give as much as you get from your network.
- Report back to anyone who has given you a hand, and give thanks.
- Follow up on all leads.
- Take advice in the spirit it was intended. (Don't say, "I tried that and it didn't work." or, "You don't understand.")
- Pick the right people to talk to.
- Be prepared for a slump.
- Be patient. If they don't have an answer now, they may be able to get it for you.
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- Ask anyone for a job while networking.
- Be afraid to ask for what you need.
- Tell everything to everybody (i.e., why you left your last job).
- Pass up opportunities (i.e., social functions).
- Expect job offers or for others to make appointments for you.
- Be discouraged (if brushed off).
- Expect an instant, magic answer. Plant the seed.
- Complain about your situation or your last job.
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