There is much discussion among seniors in college about the importance of networking, and how this, of all things, is most likely to get us employed. We have opportunities to meet people at school presentations, through professors, neighbors or even our friend’s parents. The people you meet that could help you are everywhere- but what exactly do you do when you meet them?
Simply, you tell them what you can do for them.
This may sound obvious, but put in the situation, it’s rather unintuitive. Generally, when meeting a potential goldmine contact, you think, “Wow, this person could really help me out,” and you immediately ask them about their job and how that relates to the job you want. Instead, you should be relating the qualifications you have or the interests you have, and EVENTUALLY ask about this potential job once the relationship is there.
The point of networking isn’t to hand out your business card at the first meeting and ask for something in return, but to actually build a mutually profitable relationship between you and someone else. Start with something simple, like a hobby or industry and get to know the person specifically. Follow up repeatedly, with a note of a book the person might like, or even just to ask what’s new with them.
Although networking as such has not landed me my dream job, my ability to cultivate relationships with people has helped me lead a more fulfilling life. I certainly pride myself on being able to keep in contact with many people, and I enjoy hearing about their lives, and they of mine. One of my favorite stories to tell is the time I had an interview in NYC, and I knew absolutely nobody in New York. Luckily, one of the girl’s I went abroad with, her older sister, who had spent Spring Break with us in Australia, lived in New York and took me out to dinner. It was a wonderful time, and helped ease my nerves, and I was ready to be my wonderful self in the morning.
Here, I would also like to note, the importance of TRUE friendships, not just networking. I myself am blessed to have wonderful supportive friends and family, and would not be the same without them. So, although networking to help achieve my career dreams is worthwhile, it is truly friendship that will make me rich in life.