I hear this time and again from jobseekers, “I network all the time but it seems like a big waste of time,” and I will definitely admit that there’s very little one-to-one correlation between the amount of time you spend networking and the return. It’s like looking for a rough, uncut diamond in a haystack. But it’s that one shot that can propel you to your next position, and that’s how you can pick up traction.
Here’s 4 tips to get your networking back on track.
First, look at where you’re networking. Who are the kinds of people that you’re meeting? Many of you are attending jobseeker support groups, which are great. But I often have the feeling that many people there are understandably, looking for themselves, and just don’t have the head space to help you. It’s not that they don’t care or don’t want to, but they’re in just as dire straits and are scared and frustrated. So it’s time to branch out.
Second, look for any other opportunities to get out of the house and meet people. Volunteering is a great way, but be strategic in the opportunities you accept. Volunteering at Goodwill where you end up sorting clothes in a back room won’t get you in front of people, but working on a volunteer event with their board of directors can be helpful. Google business networking groups in your area. Just because other jobseekers aren’t doing it, doesn’t mean that it’s not a good idea. And keep in mind, you’re not necessarily looking to connect with the plumber in the group, but he may get calls from the large corporations in the area and have some insider information with the administrative assistants who work there. You don’t always need the hiring manager when it’s the office staff who really know what is going on behind the scenes. Meetup.com can be another great resource.
Third, think about the conversations you’re having at these events. If you’re always chatting about the weather, movies, etc. with the same group of people-you’re officially in a rut! Talk to different people, make sure you include some conversation about your job search and new companies you’re targeting. Refresh people’s minds about what you actually do. Start to write a blog and let people know as a way of demonstrating your experience.
Fourth, set up times to meet outside of the networking meeting. Meeting someone for coffee where each of you learns more about what types of positions you’re each looking for will spur some new ideas and a new direction. You can’t possibly get to really know each other while juggling a plate of cookies and cup of coffee.
So before you write off networking as a waste of your time, analyze the process a bit to identify exactly why it may not be working for you and readjust your strategy.
Now, let’s go get some jobs!
Melanie Szlucha’s company Red Inc. Helps candidates stand out from the crowd–in a good way. Follow her on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/Red_Inc) or check out her website: http://www.reallygreatresume.com
Comments on this entry are closed.