Networking, the fine art of establishing business contacts and/or relationships, is something we’re all familiar with. We’ve all been told that this is the best and sometimes only way to actually find a job opportunity. The concept is simple enough, although true networking – really good networking – takes time. Hard to fit this into a busy schedule, huh?
When I was first starting out, networking was the buzz word. We talked about it in school. We talked about it at my first job. We talked about it at happy hour. “Everyone’s doing it; aren’t you?” I’d play along during these happy hour discussions, nodding in agreement that yes, I did indeed have a vast business network.
Inside, I was panic-stricken. Honestly I had no idea how to network or exactly what I was supposed to do. I had the crazy idea that networking was closely related to cruising the club scene to meet guys. That networking meant walking up to a total stranger – no matter where I was – to introduce myself in an attempt to find out about job opportunities.
Thank goodness I didn’t try this tactic. At best, I would have appeared to be socially challenged. At worst, well, let’s not go there.
One thing I had going for me is that I’m good at relationship building and staying in touch with people. As my career progressed, I made a point to periodically call or email past colleagues just to stay in touch. I thought it was a nice gesture, something that I would have appreciated had the shoe been on the other foot. Little did I know that I was networking!
I continue this tried and true tactic even now. It seems simple to me, staying in touch with people. It does take some time, but the pay-off is great. Each week I shoot a couple emails off to former colleagues, just to see how they’re doing. A no-brainer. Besides, I really enjoy staying in touch with people.
It’s occurred to me that not everyone is good at this. Some know what to do, yet just don’t take the time. But there are others who aren’t quite clear on the concept of networking. Unsure of how to meet people and use connections to look for opportunities, these individuals tend to push themselves too hard in an effort to be productive. The unfortunate consequence is that they alienate themselves instead of building their network. They “over-network”.
Case in point: Met a fellow at an industry event. I introduced myself – after all, isn’t this what you do at these things? Within seconds of our introductions, he immediately launched into his elevator speech followed by “do you know of any opportunities for me?”
Really? I just met you! I don’t even remember your name, despite the fact that you’re wearing a name tag. How would I even know what you’re capable of? Much less feel like I want to represent you to my colleagues?
This person continues to contact me. With the same format as the first time we met. And I still don’t know much about him except that his delivery is poor, he doesn’t have any more experience than the first time we met and I honestly feel uncomfortable recommending him to anyone.
To be clear, I really like helping those who are looking for work. Truly I do. But I can’t recommend you if we haven’t established – over time – a relationship, one that lets me get a feel for your qualifications, not to mention your abilities. Remember, you’re asking me to put my reputation on the line and recommend you to my colleagues.
With social media it’s easy and tempting to “over-network”, to try and align yourself with as many contacts as possible. Besides, we’ve all been told that the only way to find a job these days is through networking. That must mean connect with as many people as possible, whether you know them or not, right? How could this be a bad thing?
In my experience, networking has to happen sort of organically over time and through a variety of sources. Great networking comes from those who know us best, not people we meet randomly. When we are reaching out to someone new, it’s best to have a mutual friend or colleague vouch for us.
In the wrong hands, networking apparently becomes toxic. A bit sad. Sort of creepy. But done right, it works wonders.
© Tami Cannizzaro 2012 All Rights Reserved
Like Tami, I was terminated once (By my best friend, BTW – he is now on the board of the agency I lead, so I got him back – ha!), but you don’t have to be unemployed to learn something from this book. 
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