Networking – Where do I start?

How often have you caught up with a friend who seemingly, has scored a new job out of left field, which includes good pay and conditions? Is it just because they’re lucky? Were they in the right place at the right time? Nepotism? Or did they know the right people?  The truth can be a combination of a few of these factors and networking is often involved.

The single greatest ‘people skill’ is a highly developed and authentic interest in the other person. – Bob Burg

Start close to home

If the mention of a team-building or networking event is something you roll your eyes at, consider this: studies show that as many as 85% of jobs go unadvertised.  That is, knowing someone through your network is an integral part of career progression.

For some, attending industry events can seem onerous and pointless.  Having a goal, to talk to say, two people, is a good place to start.  Gerard Mullins, Managing Director of Mullins Advisory, is a member of many business networks, including the Marcellin Business Network. Gerard views networking events as a useful form of information sharing. He began attending Marcellin Business Network events as an opportunity to chat with friends and colleagues about business challenges. ‘I discuss what we do within my organisation – and listen to their take on current market trends.’  Recognising that you have information to share that can help others is an important part of finding your networking comfort level.

If you work for a larger organisation, start with showing an interest and working with people in your sector or team.  The benefits of this type of collaborative approach are not only what you stand to gain personally (information, contacts, leads) but also potentially increasing your productivity and thereby becoming a standout employee.  Workplace collaboration is employees communicating and working together, building on each other’s ideas to provide something new or do something differently. A collaborative organisation unlocks the potential, capacity and knowledge of every employee, thereby generating value, innovation and improving productivity in its workplace. (Deloitte Access Economics)

Start Small

Once you’ve decided on the network event you’re attending and if it’s something you’re anticipating having to white-knuckle your way through, start small.  Commit to staying for 30-40 minutes before leaving. It’s often the thought of something which is worse than the reality. Check if other people you know are attending and start by sitting with them (but also introduce yourself to new friends). Ask event organisers to be seated with one person you know, or even better, with people you don’t know but who work in your industry sector.

Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen. – Brene Brown

Enjoy yourself

You know once you’ve started chatting with someone if you’ve met a kindred spirit, or if moving the conversation along is going to be a Sisyphean task. Have the courage to gracefully move on to your next target. Whoever you’re speaking with remember to get their contact details. There’s nothing more frustrating than recalling an interaction but forgetting a name.

And if standing around chatting over drinks makes you feel awkward, consider also getting involved with community groups.  This is a very effective way to build networks. The Marcellin Alumni community have various Old Boy sporting clubs which have served to connect many members with employment over the years.

Start reaching out to your contacts who work within the industry you are seeking to pursue and have a conversation. Most opportunities come from people who are two to three degrees of separation from you. – James Buzzard