Networking in 10 Easy Steps

The 10 Steps

For many, the mention of the word "networking" conjures up unsettling images of uncomfortable situations where hundreds of people are exchanging business cards, making small talk and angling for a chance to ask that all-important question: "So, who do you know in my field?"

Even the most extraverted people may not get excited about this process, but it's especially painful for those that may be less comfortable with the whole ordeal of making contacts. Many who prefer to talk to people one on one and are more sensitive about personal boundaries. But the good news is it's possible to network in a more comfortable and structured way that's respectful of people.

Is networking crucial?
Yes. Networking is crucial for your career, but it doesn't have to mean cold calls or awkward conversations with strangers. Here are some tips that will come in handy, whether you're exploring a new field of interest, researching an organization or looking for references that might help propel your chances: Start with friends and family: Make a long list of friends, relatives, acquaintances, neighbors, coworkers, your daughter's basketball coach, etc. Assess the list and prioritize whom you'll contact.

Try setting up informational interviews with friends of friends:
The friend in common will be a good topic for an icebreaker when you meet or speak on the phone.

Do your research:
Interviews and screening conversations are less stressful if you're prepared. Make sure you do your homework on a company before you meet with one of its executives to find out about the business or opportunities. You will not be at a loss for what to say, you will feel more confident, and the more prepared you are, the more likely the meeting will be productive.

Use the contacts you didn't realize you already had:
Perhaps you already belong to a group, whether it's a volunteer organization or a book club, and you can start to build contacts there. You never know what contacts may be just a conversation away from you already.

Use your College resources:
Contact the MHC Alumnae Association about mentoring or perhaps get an AlumNet report from the CDC to get possible contacts & leads in fields of interest. These alumnas and mentors have to give their permission and have chosen to be listed, so you already know they'll be open to communicating with you. And you'll have your common college experience to relate to. Make sure you do your research for these contacts too.

Take advantage of local networking events:
Some organizations, like local Chamber of Commerce groups, offer breakfast meetings or other structured networking events that provide a more relaxing and comfortable environment in which to connect. It's easier to enter a room for the purpose of networking when you know everyone else is doing the same thing.

10 Easy Steps to networking

1. Telephone Calls
   Every day, you call people. You call friends and family so naturally, you don't even recognize you're networking with them. Next time you call friends or colleagues, realize you're not wasting valuable time -- you're networking. Exploit it.
2. Snail Mail
   Daily mail crosses your desk, yet rarely do you think of it as networking. Gathering information is part of networking. Newspapers, magazines, newsletters, flyers, etc., are there to keep you updated on activities, trends and issues in your field. These publications are resources to tap for hidden job markets. In between the lines of articles are the names of individuals, organizations and new opportunities you can't find in want ads. Next time you're tempted to toss a company newsletter, take time to read it. You may be surprised by the contacts and leads you can harvest from it.
3. Email
   It's so much a part of everyone's routines, no one really thinks about it. You begin your days responding to clients, coworkers or friends. Email is a great way to stay in touch and tap people for information, favors and even jokes. Take time out for email, just as you do for phone calls. It's a great way to say hello and network with colleagues. Make a point to ask what's going on in their organization or field. Drop a hint about your plans or thoughts.
4. The Internet
   You might not think of the Internet as a networking tool. Just as the mail brings information, the Internet links you to both information and organizations. And it's one of the low-risk places to start networking. You needn't talk, just learn. You can research companies, job opportunities and salaries. Even if you're not job hunting, go online to find out about the competition, like which organizations are hiring and for what.
5. Message Boards and Chat Groups
   While you're logged on, it's an easy step to join message boards and chats. These types of resources are another low-risk way to network. Sign on anonymously and ask about specific concerns. Lots of people find support this way, and they also find comfort in the anonymity. If you're out there looking but don't want your boss to know, this is a great way to get leads and contacts without revealing your identity.
6. Professional Associations
   If you're not a member of a professional group, you should be because it's a great place to start networking. It will happen easily as you meet your peers at functions. You'll also discover the added bonus of drawing people to you. This happens naturally as you participate, run for office, accept leadership roles, serve on committees or give presentations. Greater visibility not only makes networking comfortable but also draws people to you, adding to your career development and stature.
7. Religious Affiliations
   Similarly, religious affiliations work like professional groups and provide the advantage of working with people who share your values. Religious activities also provide opportunities for visibility, leadership and peer mentoring.
8. Continuing Education
   Taking courses in your field or special interests is a great way to meet peers and leaders in your discipline. Here's another opportunity to expand your network. All it takes is a little time before or after class to chat with classmates and professors. Or stay in touch by email.
9. Social/Leisure-Time Groups
   Lots of people fail to look at social events as opportunities to network. They'll often turn down invitations to holiday parties, celebrations or fund-raising dinners, thinking they are wastes of time. Instead, these functions prove to be the best networking opportunities, because people are relaxed and in festive moods. They'll often be more likely to respond to you in these types of situations. Next time, accept that invitation and nurture your relationships with people.
10. Political Groups
    Nobody networks like politicians. When all else fails, remember who pays your representatives' and senators' salaries. You do. So why not tap their staffs for the information you need? Generally they'll respond within 72 hours.

Comfortable networking means connecting with people who know and care about you or want to get to know you. Once you recognize this, your work and social activities will prove to be an integral part of your networking efforts. As you pay attention to everyday opportunities, you'll take time to say hello to coworkers and keep in touch with former professors and classmates, as well as folks you've met at professional meetings and conferences. In the process, networking will become part of your comfortable routine rather than some dreaded task for job hunters.