There are many jobs available in today's economy, and many of the best ones aren't even advertised. Instead, they're through connections - friends of friends or professional contacts that lead to vital positions with better perks than the average job.
If you've used networking before for your career, then you know how essential it can be - if not,
Here Are Some Tips On Getting Started:
Always Be Prepared
It's a networker's dream: someone they already know comes up and asks them about their line of work. Unfortunately, having nothing prepared means either trying to bluff your way out of it or turning them down when they ask you for relevant information such as certification where you can test now that you don't have at hand. In this day and age, when smartphones always have internet, social media access, and even come with a camera built-in, having your information readily available is vital. Think of it as building your own personal brand.
Understand Your Environment
The world is full of different people - some are open to being approached by strangers who want them to take an interest in their other contacts, while others want to be left alone or assume you're trying to sell them something. But, again, this goes back to the idea that knowing something about someone is key - for example, don't go up to professional athletes at bars because they probably have bodyguards who will assume you're a fan hoping for an autograph.
Don't Assume You Know Anyone.
People change jobs, cities, and circumstances all the time, so you should never assume you know someone well enough to be able to approach them about their contacts. So instead of looking for connections between actors, you are looking for connections between people in your immediate circle and any one person you want to contact.
Don't Overstay Your Welcome
Networking is all about forming relationships with lots of different people, but that doesn't mean staying close to them forever, even if they have the knowledge you need. Sometimes just being nice is good enough - others are busy or overwhelmed by sudden interest from strangers, so it's best not to pressure them into helping out right now. Instead, be polite, stay cordial, and don't go overboard trying to carry on a conversation with them.
It's All About Giving as Well as Reaping
Networking has a bad name because it means looking for handouts, but it doesn't have to be that way! By sharing your own contacts and allowing others to contact you, you'll find people will be happy to do the same for you at least some of the time. Remember, successful networking is all about fostering long-term relationships within tightly knit circles, so try not to burn too many bridges by being greedy or expecting every favor to pay off immediately.
There are many jobs available today, even if they are not advertised. Getting involved in networking can help put you on track for some great opportunities, whether they are full-time or freelance!
