Networking: a supportive system of sharing information and services among individuals and groups having a common interest.
While the concept of “networking” has been around since Adam asked Eve for an apple recommendation, it is a critical factor today in everyone’s life. We have all turned to someone that we know for a referral to someone professionally whether it be a doctor, accountant or attorney. In doing so, we rely on someone else’s group of contacts to help us out.
In searching for new job opportunities, the networking component can be a vital link in finding the best openings.
The Law of 250 states that every person knows at least 250 other people. While these people may not be the prime contact for finding employment opportunities, they also know at least 250 people who may be able to help you. The multiplying factor of the additional contacts provides a significant base of possible referral and recommendations about career openings.
In addition to the list of people that you know, the utilization of business-oriented social networking tools such as LinkedIn and Facebook have given new dimension and increased multipliers to the range of people that can assist you. For example, you probably have lost touch with some of your law school or college friends or former business colleagues. Business and social networking sites enable you to re-connect with those people thereby expanding even further the Law of 250.
For job seekers, networking can definitely be the “foot in the door” to get you the interview. Recommendations are one way that you stand-out from everyone else applying for the position. While the recommendation make help you land the interview, it’s still up to you to land the job.
After you’ve identified your own network, what’s the best way to use it?
1. Networking is a reciprocal arrangement. While you are hoping that people will be able to help you find new opportunities, likewise they are hoping that you will help them. Effective networks understand that while they do not expect anything in return, the other party agrees to try and provide mutual help when needed.
2. Appreciation. Always thank the person who has helped you acquire something that you could not have done on your own. The biggest mistake that you can make is to take someone’s help for granted and not verbalize appreciation. They have gone out of their way, put themselves out and taken time to help you. Effective networking contacts appreciate each other.
3. What goes out, comes back. Maybe you don’t need help from your network now but someone may need your help. By giving your time, advice, recommendations or suggestions you will not only be helping someone (and we all need to stick together), you’ll find when you least it expect it, you’ll be on the receiving end.
Remember that networking is about building effective relationships. It takes time, effort and patience to make the most of them.
