Having a robust professional network is incredibly beneficial, giving you valuable points of contact who may be able to assist you doing a job search. However, many job seekers only focus on these connections during times of need, limiting their communications until they need help.
By only reaching out to your network when you are seeking assistance during a job search, you are effectively functioning as a cold-caller instead of building the supporting relationships that can help you land a new job.
When you network effectively regardless of your current needs, you craft strong relationships with those around you in the workplace. Having strong professional connections is a great way to continually learn new skills in your industry. If it’s time to find a new job or change career paths, having professional connections as mentors and champions working with you goes a long way.
What can you do to be the best networker possible?
Most professionals understand how frustrating receiving a cold call can be; it often interrupts your daily activities and may come with a feeling of being pressured into buying into an idea you may not support.
When you don’t communicate with your network regularly, you may be putting your contact into a similar position. They aren’t intrinsically motivated to help you since the relationship hasn’t been reciprocal. Instead, take the time on a weekly or monthly basis to forge a connection through common interests and professional desires.
Effective networking is much more involved, focusing on relationship building instead of just fulfilling an immediate need on your end. It’s about sharing valuable information, providing useful insights, and even casually conversing to create a bond.
When a solid relationship exists, your connections will be more inclined to lend a hand in your professional pursuits, even if you aren’t actively looking. Additionally, it lays the groundwork for a more successful search in the future, ensuring your network has your back.
To build a robust network, you need to dedicate time to building relationships. Focus on people you already know and communicate with them regularly.
On the social media front, make sure you remain active. Social media gives you an avenue to make connections outside of your immediate workplace or region, digging your roots deeper into your industry. Participate in discussions, share valuable tips, provide helpful guidance, ask thoughtful questions, and post useful information. You can also comment on or share posts written by members of your network, giving you another method for engaging with them.
Messaging your contacts directly every week or two can also be beneficial. A quick check-in to see how they are doing can be incredibly effective as a means of staying in touch, ensuring you are at the forefront of their mind.
If a contact is local, consider meeting up regularly for coffee or lunch. Meeting in person solidifies the connection more effectively and creates an opportunity for natural dialog. You can also plan to attend conferences and other events together, crafting a “we’re in this together” mentality while also giving you a chance to bond.
Make sure to reciprocate and offer your support when your connections need assistance too. People are more likely to help out a friend who does the same for them, providing mutual benefit to all those involved.
By following the tips above, you can make sure you are acting as a networker and not just a cold-caller. If you are seeking out new opportunities, the professionals at nTech can help. Contact us to discuss your career goals and see how our expertise can benefit you.