On Networking
I am a big user of social media sites for networking. In fact, I utilize them on a daily basis.
They are great way for recruiters to identify, and reach out to, candidates that they would not otherwise be aware of.
But I encourage direct marketers…in fact all working people, to do a better job of simply staying in touch with others in their field. A phone call to stay in touch. A lunch “for no reason”. Passing along information that a colleague may find to be of interest. People are simply more predisposed to respond well when they don’t feel that you are meeting with them to see what they can do for you. In any case, it’s more fun meeting with someone before you need something from them.
I have a friend who has run his own business for 10 years. He does a good job of staying in touch with others in his industry. In the course of a friendly lunch last week he was surprised to be approached about a job opportunity. Although it was unexpected and he has enjoyed self-employment, he is flattered and interested in exploring the possibility.
Before I was a recruiter I had a career in magazine circulation. Over the course of my career I held 3 jobs, each of which I became aware of through personal relationships. When I went to an industry function, I didn’t sit at lunch with my co-workers; I met new people, and exchanged business cards. It was a little awkward at times, but important. When someone I met at a DMA function called me months later about what turned out to be my second job, I was truly surprised. She was savvy; I was just learning the power of creating a network.
I heavily use LinkedIn. By and large, when I reach out to my network I have something to offer; a career opportunity. My contact may not always be well received, but at least I am offering something that is potentially of value. I have passed along my share of LinkedIn “introductions” on behalf of others. I guess it’s a step warmer than a cold call, but really, not much. In the name of networking, someone is requesting that I endorse them to my contact. Think about how you would receive such a contact. Would you welcome it? More like tolerate it. Done best, networking creates a valuable matrix of people communicating with people…an exchange of information, opportunities and knowledge. More frequently, networking really means “asking for a favor”.
People respond well to people they know. Please don’t be “too busy” to stay in touch with the people who have impressed you, or to be an available mentor to those who admire you professionally. You will enrich your network, and you may also expand your professional horizons.
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