Why professional networking via social media helps your career
If Facebook were a country, it would be the third most populous in the world. This is what networking has evolved into in the modern world. It effectively means that corporate networking is much more important now that the person you were searching for being a mere mouse click away.
It has, of course, always been vital for professional success. Also understand that the adage 'it's not about what you know but who you know' is no longer true with the workforce more intelligent and better trained than ever. Networking is about setting up and maintaining relationships with professionals.
Tips on work etiquette and attitude
Networking, in the context of one's career, is about finding the right person at the right time. Whether it is for a business deal or involves identifying vendors, suppliers, employees or Mr. Fix-it to solve a problem.
For most, the biggest motive for networking is to find a job they need when they need it. This is because experienced and successful job seekers know what most recruitment consultants do.
| The best time to start networking is when you're free and you do not need an immediate favour from the person you're to meet with. |
A majority of jobs, especially the best ones, never make it to the market. They are invariably filled up by people who are known and trusted. Someone with an internal referral is preferred over a stranger.
THE RIGHT TIMEAnytime is good time to network. A successful networker will have the liberty to call up a person at a moment's notice to solve an immediate problem. His web of connections would have been built strand by strand and kept strong through regular follow up. Like any relationship, it cannot be built at the time of need.
Walk into any networking event and you'll see frenzied exchanges of visiting cards. That does as much for building a network as going through the Yellow Pages. To network effectively, cultivate a genuine interest in the people you meet.
How to communicate well in office
Your interactions with family, friends, colleagues, clients, peers and neighbours are excellent occasions for learning more about them and their professions.
Ask open-ended questions and take note of their answers. Each interaction is an opportunity to find common ground and create the foundation of an effective network.
HOW DO YOUR MEET THESE PEOPLE?
Start with your present contacts and ask for references. A second degree network offers the best potential for building relationships. In the professional space, participate actively in trade organisations, industry meetings and related events. Reach out to former colleagues, vendors, clients, bosses and even the competition.
Knowing of HR policies helps functioning as an employee
Volunteer for non-profit and social activities and reconnect with alumni associations. Finally, use online resources to set up and expand your network. Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn are the most widely used social and professional networking tools, making them the platforms of choice to dig out a lost contact, friend or acquaintance.
Also remember that networking is about reciprocity. A successful networker focuses on offering value and building the relationship first. So, offer your time and expertise to help out people who might need it.
This builds your reputation and encourages people to invest in your success. Each time you expend effort in establishing new contacts, make sure that you build up on the effort by following through.
DOs and DON'Ts
Set goals for networking, say five new contacts a week and revisiting 10 old ones. Be prepared for networking opportunities. Keep your business cards and resume handy at all times.
Remember that people like to help out and expect to be thanked. Use the first meeting for gathering information and building a relationship; business can follow. Find out ways to help out people in your network with useful leads. Find a mentor for yourself and people you can mentor. While on the Net, be polite and cautious while commenting.
Share information about yourself and create a positive, sober brand. Do not bad mouth anybody as it destroys your own credibility. Seek information, suggestions and referrals instead of a direct request for a job.
Finally, respect the other person's time and keep your interactions brief.
To enhance the reach and quality of your network, enhance your visibility by getting involved in activities beyond your work and offer your services and advice to people who ask for it. Professional networking is possibly the single most important skill that contributes to your career development.
Be persistent, stay organised and pay attention to detail to make the most of your web of contacts.
The writer is CEO, Quetzal Verify, an HR solutions company run by IIM-Ahmedabad alumni.
