What is Networking?

Networking is connecting with people that have common interests with you. Networking can be professional, such as joining local groups and organizations that meet on a regular basis to discuss issues and topics that are relevant in your field. While attending these meetings you have the opportunity to connect with other professionals and create new relationships. Or, networking can be personal, such as volunteering with people who care about important issues that affect your community. Networking can even be as easy as going to a family party and meeting a new person and striking up a pleasant conversation.

Why is Networking Important?

As the opening story illustrates, networking is a great way to find a career position. On the other hand, networking can also be a great way for employers to fill open positions and avoid some of the struggle of finding qualified candidates and digging through resumes and application materials.

The truth is a lot of job openings go unadvertised; or maybe an organization has an open position, but they haven’t gotten around to taking the time to create and post the opening. I believe the universe brings those together who need one another, but this only can happen if you put yourself out there and interact personally and professionally with your community.

Building Connections is Key to Networking

Networking isn’t as simple as just going to events where people are. It is key to interact with others and to build connections. Think about the opening story, how would things have been different if the student wasn’t friendly and likeable?

How to Build Connections

Building connections isn’t only helpful for finding job opportunities, it is an essential skill in the workplace. Once people feel connected to you, they will remember you and are more willing to help you when the opportunity arises.

Being able to engage in pleasant conversation on casual topics while presenting yourself as a confident young student or professional is key. Mastering the art of small talk is to your advantage, as is learning to put yourself in the right places to meet new people.

Here are a few helpful tips:

• Be likeable
• Focus on the other person in conversation
• Talk less about yourself
• Be a good listener
• Ask good questions
• Shake hands
• Make eye contact
• Use the name of the person you are speaking with
• Share accomplishments humbly
• Use appropriate humor
• Display confidence
• Focus on your self-presentation by dressing and acting the part
• Provide supportive responses
• Be careful what you share, but share something
• Be good at changing the subject
• Keep emotions to yourself

Who is My Existing Network?

You already have a network, even if you don’t think you do. A girl I met in 5th grade once told me about a professional job that was a great fit for me. I applied and got the job. You just never know where your next opportunity will come from.

To start building your network make a list of all the people you currently know. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Classmates
• Co-workers from current and previous jobs
• Clients from current and previous jobs
• Professors, teachers
• People you know through shared hobbies and interests
• Family members and friends
• Friends of friends and family members
• Connections from sports teams; players and coaches
• Community connections; church members, volunteer organizations
• Connections from on-campus clubs

Next look for opportunities to expand your network.

• Attend on campus opportunities to meet employers and business professionals
• Join campus clubs and student organizations
• Attend career fairs and meet representatives from local companies
• Expand your community involvement by volunteering
• Join professional organizations in your field