I’ll never forget when a young and eager student contacted me on a social media platform. He was an eager senior seeking an internship, and, to my surprise, he asked me to put in a good word for him at a company I didn’t even work for. The audacity! While his enthusiasm was admirable, his approach lacked finesse. It was a classic example of what not to do when networking.
Networking 101: How To Avoid Common Mistakes
To avoid making similar missteps and effectively leverage your network, consider these six tip.
1. Put yourself out there and network with people.
The more people you know, the more opportunities you’ll have. Attend industry events, conferences, and workshops. Join professional organizations and participate in online forums. Feel free to talk with people you don’t know, even if it’s just a brief exchange. You never know who you might meet or what opportunities arise from a chance encounter.
Building relationships takes time and effort. Don’t expect to become best friends with everyone you meet. Instead, focus on building genuine connections with people who share your interests and values. Offer to help others, even if it’s a small gesture, and be open to receiving help in return. If your approach is to help others, you’ll increase your chances of getting help when you need it.
2. Be helpful.
Networking is a two-way street. It’s not just about what you can get; it’s also about what you can give. Be generous with your time and knowledge. Offer to help others, even if it’s a small gesture. When you help others, you’re more likely to receive help in return.
For example, if you’re an expert in a particular field, offer to mentor a younger professional. Or, if you know someone looking for a job, help them by reviewing their resume or practicing for interviews. By being a valuable resource, you’ll build strong relationships and increase your chances of getting help when needed.
.3. Leverage weak network ties
Don’t underestimate the power of “weak ties” or connections with people you don’t know well. These connections can be surprisingly valuable, as they often provide access to diverse information and opportunities.
Ask your friends, family, and former colleagues for introductions to people in your industry. You never know who they might know or what opportunities they can connect you with. This approach can help you expand your network and increase your chances of success.
4. Build relationships within before making asks.
Before asking for a favor – such as a job recommendation – take the time to build a relationship with the person.
Get to know them, share common interests, and offer your support. Establishing rapport and demonstrating your value will increase the likelihood of a positive response when you eventually make your request.
For example, you might start by connecting on LinkedIn, following their work, or offering your expertise on a relevant topic. Once you’ve built a relationship, you can more confidently ask for their help, whether it’s a job referral, career advice, or an introduction to someone in their network.
5. Iterate on what you’d like to learn.
Networking shouldn’t just revolve around finding a job; it’s about learning from others, whether advice or feedback. Be specific about what you want to learn and what kind of help you need. The more specific you are, the more likely you will get the required help. For example, instead of saying, “I want to learn more about your job,” you could say, “I’m interested in learning more about your day-to-day responsibilities and challenges. Would you be willing to chat with me for 30 minutes to share your insights?”
6. Be explicit about your goals.
Clearly articulate your career aspirations and goals. Let people know what you’re looking for: a job, mentorship, or conversation. By being specific, you increase the likelihood of receiving targeted support and guidance.
For example, instead of saying, “I’m interested in a job,” you could say, “I’m interested in a role that allows me to use my data analysis and project management skills. I’m particularly interested in working on projects that involve [specific industry or field].” When you’re specific about your goals, you’ll attract the attention of people who can help you achieve them.
Remember, networking is a two-way street. Be helpful, genuine, and specific about your goals. Build rapport, offer value, and then make your ask.
