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Networking 101

Networking is not simply an exchange of information between two or more people. Rather, networking may be thought of as a process of establishing relationships with people who will become friends or a community of colleagues with whom you will keep in touch throughout your professional career. Network members may be able to help you advance your career in many ways, but reciprocity is also key, and you must be prepared to maintain engagement and communication with the people in your network to help them advance and learn from you in turn.

A networking contact may result in any of the following:

 

  • Inside information on what's happening in your field of interest, such as an organization's plan to expand operations or release a new product.

  • Job search advice specific to your field of interest, like where jobs are typically listed.

  • Tips on your job hunting tools (i.e. resume and/or portfolio).

  • Names of people to contact about possible employment or for informational interviews.

  • Follow-up interview and possible job offer.

How to Build Your Network

When attending professional development conferences and events, it’s important to intentionally network with other attendees. The following suggested strategies are meant to be descriptive and not prescriptive approaches to effectively, meaningfully, and sustainably networking with people, specifically when attending conferences. Keep in mind that building your professional network is a process that requires sincerity and dedication; it can’t be done overnight. That said, there are many opportunities to establish useful relationships. For example:

 

  • Reach out to your personal contacts: While they may not share your career interests, your personal contacts are extremely valuable when it comes to networking. Start by creating a list of everyone you know: friends and family, as well as current and past employers, coworkers, teachers and classmates. Reach out to these people and share your goals, plans and questions with them; chances are, they can refer you to others who may be helpful.

  • Request informational interviews: An informational interview is a meeting to gain insight and/or advice from someone with experience in your field of interest. Unlike a job interview, you initiate and conduct the interview with someone you hope to learn from. For a list of sample informational interview questions, see below. *

  • Attend conferences or formal networking events: Industry and/or professional events present a great opportunity to build your network; it is perfectly acceptable to strike up a conversation with a stranger in this context. Begin your conversation with what you know about the person or the organization, talk about your common interests, and build your conversation from there. Let them know how you can possibly help them, as well as why you want to help them.

  • Leverage digital networks: Social media, such as LinkedIn and Facebook, are optimal platforms for connecting with people who have similar professional interests and goals. A good way to start is by asking people you already know to make “digital introductions” with people you would like to network with (e.g., by email or LinkedIn message). You can also join online groups or forums to build relationships with people who share your interests.

How to Maintain Your Network

It is important to think of a professional network as something that is alive and requires time and attention to stay healthy and relevant. It is not enough to call upon your contacts only when you need their help: you must also think about how you can help them. For example:

 

  • Pass along relevant information: Reach out to your contacts when something reminds you of them, such as an article or event they might like. Simple gestures such as these clearly demonstrate that you are thinking of others’ needs, and this is key as these types of relationships should be considered as mutually beneficial to all parties involved.

  • Facilitate mutually beneficial introductions: If you know two people who share similar interests or goals, connect them! You can facilitate an introduction in-person (if you have the opportunity), use social media such as LinkedIn, or send both parties an email. Be sure to mention how you know each person and how they might benefit from connecting.

  • Reach out in advance of a job search: In the event that you are looking for a new job, it’s appropriate to call upon your professional network to help you. You can request job leads or relevant contacts for informational interviews, and/or seek advice from your network. Keep your contacts informed of your progress, and always acknowledge their assistance with a thank you note to demonstrate gratitude and appreciation.

 

Though building a professional network can be challenging at first, your efforts will be worthwhile in the long term. And remember: the best time to build relationships is before you need them. Good luck!

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