Networking 101

Networking...do I have to?!?!  Let me try to demystify the fear of networking.  But first, why should you network in the first place?

Networking is a great way to find a mentor (see my previous post on Mentors).  You need mentors and you will only find them by putting yourself out there.  Networking increases your chances of finding the right job for you.  It also gives you an opportunity to learn by being exposed to different people with different perspectives.  

Very important: have a goal and a story.  As the saying goes: you might as well be yourself because everyone else is taken.  Practice articulating your story: 

• What is your background?

• What are you interested in?

• What were your favorite subjects in school?

• Do you like heads down work or constant interaction with others or somewhere in between?

• Are there certain industries or roles that are interesting to you?  Why?

Networking and talking with others allow you to practice sharing what you are interested in and what you are good at.  As you practice sharing your story you will (a) get more comfortable sharing it with people you don't know and (b) you will learn more about yourself and what you really want as you get feedback from others.

So how do you network?  There are multiple ways, and you should be able to find a way that works for you.

• Talk with people you know.  Start with teachers, friends of you parents, and neighbors.  You already know them, and they probably care about you.

• Look for people on LinkedIn.  Many people will respond to a message from you even if they don't know you.  If they don't respond it is more likely that they are too busy at that time as opposed to have something against you.  Don't take it personal.  Be patient and try again.  People are busy.  If you don't get a response after a couple tries, move on to the next person.

• Go to conferences.  Be willing to walk up to someone you don't know and start a conversation.  Sample introduction: "Hi.  My name is Matthew.  I am a student at XYZ.  I am interested in your industry/company.  Can you tell me about how you got to where you are now?"  Give it a try.  People are generally kind and willing to share what they know.  Ask for a business card and follow up with a thank you.  Maybe the relationship will grow over time.

• The FedEx Technique.  I saw this in action when someone sent a letter via FedEx to a CEO.  She wanted a job and used this as a way to (a) get right to the decision maker and (b) distinguish herself.  It got her an interview that ultimately led to a job.  This could be an effective technique if you want to get a message to a specific person without it getting lost in the 50-100+ emails a typical worker gets in a day.

•  Important Note: being a student is a golden ticket to meet people as almost everyone is willing to give some time to help a student.  Don't waste it!

Remember: Practice your story and keep at it.  Once you find the right person, they could be a mentor for life.

How To Learn More

• Dig into my other writings on the job search process on The Search page.

  • Better understand your own skills and where you will be successful at Roles.

  • Check out my writings on various industries and departments at the Industries page.