Networking: 5 Steps to Success

To find out information for your job search, you must talk to people. That’s what networking is about: building relationships through sharing of information. You will probably find out about job opportunities through networking, but much more of your conversations with be sharing lots of other useful information: Who’s hiring, who’s good to work for, what companies should be avoided, who might know about a specific topic, how best to present yourself, and the list goes on and on.

If you don’t prepare ahead of time, it’s easy to focus too much on finding a job opportunity, and miss out on other equally useful information. Here are five tips to get you ready for a networking conversation:

1. What one question you would ask them: If you only get a few minutes of their time, and they ask you what they can do for you – what one thing will you ask?


2. How will you lead up to your #1 question? Think about how awkward the question is for the other person (“Will you hire me” is very awkward, “What do you think about this development in the industry” is much less awkward), what you can do to lead up to the question, as well as what other information you want before asking.


3. What are you bringing to them? The conversation should be between two people who each bring something valuable to the relationship. Think about this – you may even want to do a little research before calling, just to ensure that you know your contact’s interests.


4. What other information would you like? Most people like to talk about themselves and what they are doing. If you get an opportunity, what other information (beyond your #1 question from step 1) would be most helpful?


5. How can you present yourself in the best light? Think about what one or two messages about yourself you want the contact to hear. Get these down to short, compelling statements. Be ready to present them in a confident, conversational way.

That’s it. You’re ready to take on the networking world. Another way to "give back" is to show interest in your contact's thoughts and concerns during the conversation, and by following up afterward. Don’t forget to send a thank-you note afterward to cement the positive impression that you’ve made.