How To Network Successfully

Wondering what the hidden job market is all about? Not sure how to access it?  Start here with our online networking strategies workshop!

STEP 1 What is Networking?

Networking is the act of asking people for advice, information and referrals to others. It is an organized way to form links between the people you know and the people they know to form a ‘net’ of personal contacts who can offer you support and information about job opportunities.

 

STEP 2 Why do I Need a Network?

Have you ever heard the expression "It's not what you know, but who you know?"

Your skills, abilities and knowledge are keys to landing a job, but they may not help you get your foot in the door. Most jobs are in the hidden job market – postions employers hope to fill through personal contacts.

 

STEP 3 BRAINSTORM - Who’s in Your Network?

Brainstorm a list of people who you might consider in your network

 

STEP 4 You Are Networking When…

Networking is easier than you think, consider some of these potential networking situations

  • Attend professional or trade association meetings
  • Talk to other parents when attending your child's sporting or music events
  • Volunteer for a community event
  • Visit with other members of your social clubs
  • Talk to your neighbours
  • Strike up a conversation with someone else waiting at the veterinarian's office
  • Post messages on mailing lists
  • Use internet newsgroups
 

STEP 5 When Talking to People You Know:

To keep your job search on track through networking, be sure to

  • Tell them about your job search and describe the type of work you want
  • Tell them how your skills and experience relates to the type of work you want
  • Ask if they know of any suitable employment opportunities
  • Ask if they would refer you to others who might know of potential job opportunities
  • Ask if they would be willing to introduce you to these people, or ask for permission to mention their name when you call the people you have been referred to
  • Give them your Calling Card

Always thank your contacts for their help! A thank you note is a good idea.

 

STEP 6 Tips For Effective Networking!

When calling people you don't know, be as brief and to the point as possible. Your goal is to set up a meeting with the person or possibly acquire another referral.

  • Introduce yourself. Explain who referred you, if appropriate, and why you are calling. Remember you are looking for information not asking for a job
  • Ask for a short, face to face meeting
  • People may not always have the time to meet with you. Be gracious for the time they have given you. If time allows, ask if they may be able to answer a few questions over the phone. Briefly describe your background and job objective, and ask if they know of any employers looking for someone with your skills and qualifications.

In person or on the phone it is best to avoid putting the employer on the spot by asking for employment.

 

STEP 7 Are you shy or uncomfortable in a room full of strangers?

You are not alone. Many people find it difficult to meet new people, strike up conversations with strangers and "network."

  • Work on a friendly, accepting and helpful attitude
  • Introduce yourself and make people feel comfortable
  • Meet as many people as you can. Talk to them everywhere - you have nothing to lose by being friendly
  • Ask questions. The easiest way to capture someone's attention is to get them to talk about himself / herself. What hobbies do they have? What associations do they belong to?
 

STEP 8 Networking Questions That Work!

How did you get started in your business?

People like to share their stories with people.

What do you enjoy most about your profession?

A question that inspires a good, positive feeling.

What advice would you give someone just starting in your business?

Everyone likes to feel that their answers matter.

What one thing would you do with your business if you knew you could not fail?

This is this person's dream and it will give them a chance to fantasize. You will notice that people will always take a few minutes to really ponder their answer.

What makes your approach to the industry different?

This is an opportunity to do a little bragging.

What significant changes have you seen take place in your industry through the years?

This is a great question to see where the industry has been and where it may be going.

What do you see as the coming trends in your industry?

This is a great question. Everyone has some ideas that inspire additional comments and insights.

Describe the strangest or funniest incident you've experienced in your business.

This gives people an opportunity to share their "stories".

What one sentence would you like people to use in describing the way you do business?

Almost always a person will stop and think really hard before ¬answering this question.

 

STEP 9 Script for Networking

Good afternoon/morning, my name is ____________________. I would like to take about 15 minutes of your time to ask you a few questions to help me with my work search. Before I make any decision about my particular career choice, I would like to get some advice regarding this type of work.

If they say "no" ask if they can refer you to someone else, and thank them for their time.

If you arrange a meeting, make sure you only take the amount of time that you said you would, unless they insist you stay longer to talk.

 

STEP 10 Tips to Improve Your Networking Skills!

  • Talk to people regularly to see how they are doing
  • Assist people if they have problems
  • Phone people on special occasions such as birthdays
  • Learn how to ask, listen and respond well during conversation
  • Contact people in your network if you hear or see something that would interest them
  • Put yourself in situations where you can meet new people
  • Help people celebrate their accomplishments and successes
 
 

Bookmark / Send to a Friend

Email Workshop Notification

Sign Up to Receive Instant Notification of Future Worshops

Newsletter Signup

Job Search Quick Links

Social

To complete a successful job search you will need…

A Positive Attitude = Your attitude can be everything when job searching. A good attitude towards your job search and job prospects will come across to potential employers when you write your cover letter, interview and even when you are hand delivering resumes.