Networking

November 30, 2017

What is Networking?

Networking is defined as the act of making contact and exchanging information with other people, groups and institutions to develop mutually beneficial relationships
(Definition at http://www.yourdictionary.com/networking).

Why would I want to Network?

Networking is a way to find jobs, gain important resource information, and branch to obtain future leads for your business.

How do I Network?

One way to get started is to create a LinkedIn account. Steve Davis, the BYU-Idaho Alumni Director, shared how to set up an account in a webcast.

He tells the audience how a LinkedIn account can connect you to a wide audience of employers who are looking for people with your skills.

Another way to Network is to conduct Informational Interviews. Find people with jobs that you are interested in and contact them to inquire if they would be willing to give you a 15-minute informational interview.

After you make the appointment, come up with a list of questions you want to ask them. Be specific when you ask. You can ask such things as:

• What do you like about your job?
• What do you dislike about your job?
• What do you do in your job day-to-day?
• What would someone like me need to do to qualify to be in a position like you’re in?

Listen! Take notes!

If you don’t finish getting all the answers in your 15-minute interview time, be respectful and and ask for another appointment. Even if the person offers to keep going, state that you recognize that they are a busy person and that you want to keep your commitment (time limit). Then ask if you can call them back again, after you’ve done what they’ve suggested you do.

This builds trust. You’ll earn their respect if you keep it precise and professional. And the next time you call, (two weeks later?) continue in the same proficient manner with a brief report of what you accomplished and additional questions to further your knowledge.

This method, if handled competently, can possibly land you in the job of your dreams, or at least the field of your interest. DON’T ask for a job in your first conversation. Build a relationship. Earn their trust. Then you are well on your way to building a good Networking bridge.

How you build your bridges will determine how you get across to where you want to be.   

To quote Ralph Ellison, “Education is all a matter of building bridges.” *

*(https://www.naspa.org/constituent-groups/posts/building-bridges-by-gage-e.-paine)