Job networking offers many benefits – and let’s make it clear upfront that all parties involved should mutually benefit from your networking efforts. When you approach job networking with the right mentality that means you are building relationships that have meaning and that can provide benefit now and into the future. Related: 10 Common Networking Mistakes To Avoid Whether you’re currently job searching or looking for career advice, job networking can help. To effectively conduct job networking, you’ll want to avoid these mistakes:
1. Don’t stop job networking.
Job networking should be an ongoing process. You don’t just resort to it when it’s time to find a job or when you’re facing challenges in your career. Not only should you maintain regular contact with your network of contacts, but you should continue to build your network. Make a point to reach out to your existing contacts at least once a month so there’s regular communication. It won’t come across as odd when you suddenly seek their help or advice when you really need it. And your opportunities only continue to grow when you regularly build your network. Find other networking groups to join, reading: “9 Networking Groups You Should Join.”2. Remain active on social networking sites.
Part of staying active when it comes to job networking means you are sharing information. Remember it’s not only about what benefit you gain out of it, but also how you can benefit others – that’s what a strong network does. One of the easiest ways to do it is with social networking sites where you can share information like articles you’ve read or add to discussions by posting questions or comments in Groups or to the posts your contacts share. By interchanging information, you avoid the chance of others getting an impression that you’re only networking for self-gain.3. Follow-up and express appreciation.
When someone offers to introduce you or refers you to another contact, always loop back to follow-up with them. Inform them of what happened and express appreciation for their help no matter the turn out. An individual who is gracious will be remembered and there will be much more willingness to help again in the future when needed.4. Have a reason to connect.
When trying to build new contacts, do your research ahead of time. The last thing you want to do is approach someone blindly because then it’ll feel like you’re just randomly looking to add contacts. Have a purpose for contacting and wanting to build a relationship with the individual and express it to them. For example, “I saw you’ve been in the field of XYZ for many years and came across your recent post on…..I’d love your advice on….” It’s better than sending a blank invite to connect. For more tips on connecting, read: “What To Say When Connecting On LinkedIn.” It doesn’t matter the stage you are at in your career or what challenges you may or may not be facing, job networking can be beneficial at all times. Make an effort to include it in your regular routine and just remember to approach it with the mentality that it is for mutual gain. When approached the right way, you create lasting relationships that offer benefit going into the future too! This post was originally published at an earlier date.Related Posts
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