Networking

The Challenges of Networking

Who loves networking? Not many people do! In fact, if a formal survey were completed today, it would likely show that most people find networking hard to do! Jessie mentions this in the podcast.
 

Why is networking so hard? Two main factors make networking hard for people: the fear of rejection and the lack of practice. And it can be argued that one factor impacts the other!

First, let’s consider the fear of rejection. This fear is very real, and it’s also very normal for one to feel as though they might be rejected when reaching out to others. While this might be one’s perception, the reality is that most people like to help. It’s our nature to be helpers; someone has likely helped them along the way. If a person says no, generally, the reasons have more to do with logistics like timing and workload. So, isn’t it comforting to know that if you face rejection, it likely has nothing to do with you?

Now, let’s consider practice. Networking is like a muscle; it needs to be flexed! When we practice networking, it becomes less fearful! Three steps to successful networking:

1. Prepare
2. Seek opportunities
3. Reflect on your skills

When preparing to network, permit yourself to use all the tools you have to help make connections with others. Jessie knows she is an introvert, so she leverages tools like LinkedIn to approach people.
 

Send a friendly direct message request to people you are curious about and ask them if they would be willing to share a bit about their career journey. Here is an example direct message that you can use as inspiration:

Once you receive a positive response, set up a time! Book 20-30 minutes in person, through video conferencing or phone to set up an informational interview. Once you have set up the informational interview, prepare yourself for the conversation by researching. To gather background information on the employer. Find out as much as you can, including:

1. What does the company do?
2. Where are they located?
3. Who might be a contact to talk with?

The best source of information is the company’s web page. Check out the “Contact Us” or “About Us” pages to see if there are names of people listed who may be potential contacts. LinkedIn is also a good resource, as many companies have company pages on the page.

Consider taking time to find out about the person’s background as well. Their LinkedIn profile can give you insight into their career and educational history. Use the information to create questions that you can ask during the meeting. When networking, your key goal is to gain other contacts. Jessie describes this experience when one person she connected with indicated that they didn’t know anyone about the industry but knew someone they could refer her to.
 

In addition to directly contacting people on LinkedIn, another way to grow your network is to seek opportunities to connect in person through events. All industries have industry associations interested in supporting that industry’s advancement. Many industry associations host annual events where people come together at conferences, and many have student rates. Why not check out one of these conferences and see who you can meet? Another good tip is to look at Eventbrite to see if there are in-person events such as job fairs or meet and greets. These events can be a low-risk way to practice connecting with others.

Lastly, reflect! After you reach out to people via LinkedIn or attend in-person networking events, take the time to reflect on your ability to network. This will help you flex your networking muscles!

Consider asking yourself these questions:

1. Were you excited to meet new people?
2. What kind of energy did you portray? For example, were you overly nervous, calm, relaxed, interested, or excited?
3. Was the interaction energizing or draining? Analyze the great parts and what you could do differently the next time.
4. Did your efforts produce the results you were looking for? If not, consider adjusting your approach.

Final Thoughts

Keep going! The whole purpose of networking is to grow your network, so keep following up with people. As you move through your career, keep building your personal network.