Transitions at Work

By Karen McHenry

From: At Work Newswire

Networking as a way to enhance a career is nothing new. However, networking in today’s world has taken on a different look with the advent of the Internet. Before we delve into how to use online sites most effectively, let’s back up for a moment and consider why networking is important.

While many people scour online job postings for new opportunities, the truth is that many jobs are never advertised. Often companies need assistance in different areas, but overworked managers never find enough time and energy to formally budget for and publicize the job openings. Networking is a great way to learn about these types of jobs.

Recent college graduates and people new to networking should keep a couple of guidelines in mind, as they embark on the process. The essence of networking is creating two-way connections with people, with the goal of sharing information and helping one another. Building a network doesn’t happen overnight. Patience and persistence are key success factors.

Networking effectively

Online networking sites have gained a great deal of visibility in the past few years. However, these resources are just one component in a networking toolkit. Time-tested networking techniques, like informational interviewing, professional associations, and alumni organizations, are still excellent ways to find people with similar interests. Informational/exploratory interviewing can be particularly useful for recent college graduates who are exploring different industries and career paths. (See “Ten Tips: Effective Exploratory Interviews“).

There are numerous networking sites, such as LinkedIn, Plaxo Pulse, Facebook, Spock, and others. One of the most popular for business networking is LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com). LinkedIn currently has over 20 million members, with an average age of 41. These online networking sites offer a convenient way to create and maintain a network, and they also are a common way for recruiters to search for promising candidates.

Matt Benati, Director of Product Management at Application Security Inc., found his current position through LinkedIn. Or perhaps it would be more accurate to say that the job found him. Benati commented, “The stars aligned for me. My current boss was looking on LinkedIn for people with product management expertise. He saw my profile and cold-called me. I interviewed and got the job.”

Ways to use LinkedIn to maximum advantage include:

• Creating a profile outlining your professional and educational experience
• Incorporating keywords and skills into your profile that emphasize your professional goals
• Building an online network by connecting with people you trust from school and work settings
• Asking co-workers and managers to provide recommendations for your work

Online networking sites can be a particularly effective way to develop a network in a new geographic area. Before accepting his Massachusetts-based job at Application Security Inc., Matt Benati was also considering a move to the Atlanta area. He found that LinkedIn was instrumental to developing contacts in that city. Benati explained, “I found a position at a company in Atlanta which looked interesting. I searched LinkedIn to see if there were any members who worked there. I learned that the hiring manager was three degrees removed from my network. I asked one of my contacts to pass my information to his acquaintance in Atlanta who knew the hiring manager. Not only did I learn more about the company that I was initially interested in, but I also had an informational interview with the person who passed my information along to the hiring manager.”

Networking is all about building relationships – whether it is through online communications, phone conversations, or in-person meetings. Showing good manners is a sure way to create a foundation of goodwill in your network. Be sure to:

• Respect others’ time when scheduling and conducting meetings.
• Keep your word, if you have committed to helping others with developing new contacts or by providing information.
• Express your thanks through an email or note. Most people like to help others. It is always nice to know that efforts are appreciated.

For those who are patient, employ a full portfolio of networking approaches, and use a few etiquette tips, networking is sure to have great outcomes. You never know who you will meet and what hidden career opportunities may be uncovered!

Karen McHenry consults to the software industry on strategy and new product development, writes on business, technology and career issues, and teaches at Endicott College.

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Copyright © 2008 Karen McHenry

All rights reserved

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