Networking Tips

Networking is one of the most effective tools to build meaningful relationships at workplace. Networking, if done effectively can result in productive usage of time and help you attain your career goals and objectives. However, it is imperative that networking is done in a planned manner with right people at right places. Further, networking can help you find jobs that aren’t advertised by the companies. One can also gain an edge over other candidates during hiring process by accumulating knowledge of recruitment processes and information about the company policies.

Key Objectives of Networking

• Enhancing your exposure in the marketplace by meeting and interacting with as many people possible
• Building meaningful relationships with people who can refer you for an advertised position within their organization
• Building relationships with people who are influential in the industry
• Building relationships with those who can advice you meet your career objectives
• Interacting with people who can provide you with information about HR processes in their companies

Strategies for Networking

Brainstorm

Think of everyone who could possibly serve as a meaningful contact in search for your job. Do not just think of your immediate relatives or friends, but try and think of all those who might be connected to them as well. Some of the people with whom you can network include:

• Family friends/Relatives/Neighbors
• Professors/Alumni
• Former and current employees/co-workers
• Public relations officials
• Local politicians/Journalists
• Members of professional organizations
• Business executives
• Networking Platforms

There are a number of platforms where you can start to network, starting from online options of offline opportunities. Make sure that you have utilized all of them or al least the one’s which you think is most effective. Some of these platforms include:

Online                              Offline

Linkedin.com                 Alumini 
Plaxo.com                      Reunions
Wapr.com                      Fundraisers 
Kreeo.com                     Conventions/Job Fairs
Peerpower.com            Business Conferences
Apnacircle.com             Parties

Prepare Yourself

It is important to have a game plan in place to make it effective. While you approach anyone at anyplace, it is important to do your homework. Find out whom you want to meet and develop a potential list of contacts. Find out as much as possible about their background information and then create a list of potential questions. Be prepared with your networking goals such as what kind of information you want to walk away with and what do you want to convey in the meetings.

Follow Up

Once you meet a potential contact, it is important that you follow up with a thank you note. Tell your contact how much he or she helped you. Further, maintain your relationships and stay in touch with whom you meet. This will also help them remembering you when a possible opening comes in their organization or refer you to their known ones.

Make yourself Helpful

If you need others help to meet your objectives, then you must also help other to meet theirs as well. Remember people who might be at their starting point of their careers will one day be running companies and making decisions. If you treated them well in their times of needs, then they will remember you and return the favor later.

Be Precise with what you want

This will make it easy for your contacts to help you out in a more meaningful way. Explain precisely what you are looking for. For example, I am seeking position in a KPO, Do you know anyone who works in the KPO industry, May I have their names and contact details.

Be Organized

Lastly, maintain a track of your networking. Make sure you jot down every single detail including details such as names, job titles, and conversation you had with them.