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Networking to Advance Your Career
The purpose of business networking is to gain information,
increase your visibility in your field and establish
personal connections that will help you move forward in your
career. Even if you're happy with your job, you should
always be looking ahead to the next one. There are a few
steps involved in this process:
Look beyond your company for business contacts so that your
networking will have lifelong continuity regardless of the
specific job you hold. Join professional organizations that
you have a genuine interest in and attend at least one
activity a month. At the same time, habitually ask people in
your circle if they know anyone who might be a good contact
for you. At its core, networking should be fun. If you seek
out people who care about the same things you do, you'll
enjoy networking and won't view it as a chore.
Many people dislike networking because they think asking a
relative stranger for help is an imposition. As it's human
nature to want to help someone, you'll find that most people
will be receptive provided you approach them the right way.
If you know you're going to be meeting a potential contact,
don't just drop a pile of business cards in your briefcase
and call it a day. Prepare for networking conversations in
advance by considering what you need from the contact.
Networking is a collaboration, every time you ask for
something or meet with a potential contact you should think
about how you can help them in return. Listen to your
contacts carefully so that you can glean insights about how
you might assist them.
When approaching a potential contact, be friendly,
respectful and brief. E-mail usually achieves better results
than a phone call. No matter how you make contact, always
keep in mind that the person is doing you a favor. Remember
to send him a thank you note afterward.
After a successful first networking meeting, it's your
responsibility to keep the lines of communication open. Did
your contact give you any advice or suggest a course of
action? If so, touch base every so often to remind her who
you are and keep her apprised of your progress. Keep on top
of her career moves and make sure she stays informed of
yours. Invite her to get together again, and during the
holiday season, send her a card with a nice note.
Even the most natural networking interactions can be
challenging if you're shy. You might not like asking people
for anything, whether it's advice about a field or a piece
of gum. Some experts advised overcoming anxiety by talking
to potential contacts about the aspects of career and
business you feel most strongly about.
When making a networking call, jot down a few notes so that
you won't forget what you want to say. Also set aside time
in the morning when your energy level is highest and stand
up during the call so that your voice comes across
professionally.
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