PRofessional networking
Networking
Career networking is a way to make contacts and build relationships. And according to human resource professionals, networking is the number one way to promote career growth. Networking is a give-and-take social experience of getting to know someone, and you sharing about yourself. The process of networking allows you to be of assistance to those you know and vice versa. You create value to yourself by giving to others. Since people like to do business with, and refer business to those they know, like and trust, they are likely to support you in your goals. Effective networking becomes a win/win situation for all.
WHY NETWORK:
Relationships are a catalyst for success
People are inclined to do business with people they have a real and meaningful connection with
Find “hidden” jobs, those that are not posted on any job board site and are typically filled on a referral basis
Find jobs with less competition
Stand out from the competition
Bypass “screeners”
It may lead to a job being created for you
Start at a higher level and with higher pay
Give you more credibility when you start your job
IDEAS FOR STARTING THE CONVERSATION
Simply introduce yourself. “Hi, I’m David. This is the first Utah JS meetup I’ve been to…”
Ask someone how they heard about the event or why they are interested in this event.
Use the food table as an excuse to strike up a conversation. “Everything looks so good. What are you going to get?”
Use compliments as a way to interact with others.
Find someone else who looks shy or who isn’t talking to other folks. “Wow, there are a ton of people here, can I join you here where it is quieter?”
WHERE CAN YOU NETWORK?
Enterprise Projects
On-campus recruiting events, e.g. Tech Talks, Booth Fairs
Hack-a-thons
Off-campus employer information sessions
Social media, especially LinkedIn
Local meetup groups:
Tips:
Connect with people you meet at events on LinkedIn and stay in touch with them.
ARE YOU AN INTROVERT?
Networking is especially hard for introverts, but this does not mean that being an introvert should keep you from networking. Find your own personal networking style. Find the approach that feel most comfortable and matches your particular personality. As a first step, find small networking events and then build your way up to larger ones.
Remember, do not pretend to be who you are not during the networking process. People can normally read ‘vibes’ and it may be helpful for you to be coming off as up front and honest. This may even include subtly getting comfortable in your discomfort and letting it show a little bit. This may even relax you some more because the pressure to pretend is removed. Therefore, being authentic and natural is the first step and may actually help you create real and meaningful connections with the individuals you come across.