Knowing the “right” people and having advocates in your corner almost always outweighs skill, talent, hard work, and being able to market yourself.
There I said it.
Those other things are important but you’ve got to know how to play the game to some degree. Networking isn’t just about schmoozing at industry events or accumulating business cards; it's a strategic tool for career change, job loss, and part of career contingency planning that goes beyond only reaching out to people when you need their help.
Start by networking poorly if you have to.
“Doing networking” poorly is better than not doing it at all. There’s no perfect way to do it. Start with trying to talk to people more. Get in the habit of reaching out to people, checking in. Practice making it a daily, weekly, or monthly habit. Just be thoughtful. Stay connected to people inside of your circle while you make it bigger.
Informal networks are powerful if you actually use them. Close friends, family, and colleagues often form your most underutilized network. These are the people who know your abilities and can provide unfiltered advice. Leverage this intimate circle for honest insights and support during times of career change, job loss or career contingency planning.
Mix it up
Traditional networking primarily involves connections within your industry or field. However, branching out to other industries can lead to innovative ideas.. I talk about making “career babies”, or using career blending to create unexpected opportunities. There’s no down side to being open to this.
Bridge the generational gap
Don't limit your network to one or only your age group. Connect with all different levels of experience. Don’t rule out someone as being too old or too young. It doesn’t matter your experience level, you want perspectives that provide freshness, wisdom, experience, and possibility!
Informational interviews
Informational interviews are about curiosity, not job opportunities. Reach out to individuals in your desired industry or field to learn about their experiences, challenges, and what led them to their current role. You’re aiming for insights, but potential byproducts can be job leads. Don’t go in with that expectation but the stats are there. Twelve well-executed information interviews on average, uncover one hidden job lead and offer. Even if they don’t, you’ve expanded your networking by 12 people which will be super helpful. This is how I teach what I call a “low volume” job search approach and it’s the most effective when you start it long before you actually need a new job. Also, if you’re only job searching passively (say, using online job boards) you’re looking at needing to apply to at least 10X as many jobs before you get an interview and the competition will likely be much higher. Your experience may vary but combining these approaches is likely to put you in a very good spot.
Network continuously, not just in crisis
Networking is a long-term investment, not a last-minute resort. Continuous networking can provide you with insights and opportunities. Look at it as career contingency planning, more of an ongoing process rather than a reactive one.
Create Your Personal Board of Directors AKA Your Support Squad
Traditional advice suggests mentors, but why stop there? Form your personal "Board of Directors" - a group of diverse, trusted advisors who provide guidance, constructive criticism, and support, each in their own unique way. Creating a board of directors for your career can offer a wide range of benefits, similar to the way organizations benefit from diverse, experienced boards. Check out my career article: Create Your Career Board of Directors, Also Known as Your Support Squad.
Remember, your network is your armour. Beyond just being able to replace your job faster when you lose it, networking while employed is one part of as overall insurance policy for your career. It's about recognizing that your professional world is rich with opportunities beyond your current role. By nurturing genuine connections, you create a powerful network that not only safeguards your present but secures your future. So, start now.
I know something brought you here and maybe it was a search for what to do next about your career. There are a few ways I can help:
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Cheering you on!
Christine
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