No matter who you are or where you work, your network is important—and not just when you’re looking for a new job. If you are in the job-seeking process, the people you know will be instrumental in helping you get in the door. But even if you’re satisfied where you are, your network is crucial for your advancement and success.
So how should you play the field to boost your chances of being an industry star or landing the perfect job? Read on for the answer.
There’s a common misconception that networking is only to be used when you’re trying to get something from people. Really, though, you should be networking all the time—it should be second nature. If you only try to build your web of connections when you need to get a foot in the door of a new job, not only will you be rushed and ineffective, but people will see right through you. Rather than having to scrounge for an in at the last minute, try setting aside fifteen minutes every day for networking. This can mean anything from connecting with old colleagues on LinkedIn to having a Facebook conversation with an old friend. Anything you do that strengthens your relationships with work-related acquaintances counts as networking.
Speaking of social networks, the internet is an amazing tool for networking. Anything from stodgy old LinkedIn to something seemingly unrelated to work like Instagram can help you in your search. The reason is pretty simple: the internet is an unparalleled way to meet new people, and meeting new people is the core of networking. Any medium that connects you to other people, no matter what industry or walk of life they’re from, will help you.
People often complain about the time and effort required to network, but that’s bogus. In fact, you probably already network more than you think! Networking is basically a code word for “productive socializing.” Whenever you text a college buddy who works at that cool new think tank or grab a beer with your brother-in-law who works at a fancy law firm, you’re networking. Maintaining old relationships is just as important as creating new ones—perhaps more so. Who’s more likely to land their dream job, the guy with a thousand passing acquaintances or the girl with a hundred close friends?
Reciprocity is another important part of networking. These people aren’t here for you, they’re here for themselves, so make it worth their while. Remember favors people do for you, and do your best to pay them back. Don’t be a social vampire: whenever you make a new connection, don’t just bleed people of all their helpful information. Try to give back as much as—or more than—they give you. That will ensure a healthy relationship and permanent goodwill for the future.
Follow these tips and you’re sure to accumulate a large and loyal network of friends, colleagues and acquaintances, each with their own skills and abilities. You never know who might give you the in you need.