Networking: The Key to Success in Your Career

"Networking is making links from people we know to people they know, in an organized way, for a specific purpose, while remaining committed to doing our part, expecting nothing in return."

Power Networking Did you know that A referral generates 80 percent more results than a cold call? Seventy-five percent of people get their jobs through networking? Most people have at least 250 contacts? Yes, it's true! Think of all the people you know from school, work, your neighborhood and religious congregation. Anyone you might want to meet or contact is only four or five people removed from you. Networking is not just for those looking for a job. The best time to start is when you are happily employed. Networking is about the give-and-take process of building relationships. Networking is not Putting friends, neighbors and associates on the spot Using people strictly for your own gain Coercing or manipulating someone into doing what you want No one does it alone and you certainly can't. Get rid of the "Lone Ranger" mentality. You need others and they need you. Many people are uncomfortable asking for things. If you feel this way, I recommend reading The Aladdin Factor by Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen. Facing Your Fears The first step in networking is to face your fears. What are you afraid of? Do any of the following sound familiar to you? "I can't handle rejection." "If they support me, what will they expect in return?" "I don't want to look weak." "I'm not comfortable being pushy or aggressive." Don't worry about being unable to return the favor immediately. Help the next person you can, without expecting anything in return. No one succeeds without help from others. List Your Contacts Next, make lists of all your contacts. Knowing where you want to go can focus your networking efforts. Contacts include: Neighbors, past and present People you went to school with People you have worked with in the past People who attend your religious congregation Former teachers, employers People you socialize with People who provide services to you Relatives Friends of relatives Members of professional and social organizations Parents of your children's friends Make Contact Be clear about what you want before you contact the person. You need to be focused. If you want information, ask for the information you want. If you want job leads, or contacts for jobs, know what kind of job you seek. Keep in touch with all your professional contacts. Be active in professional and social organizations and other groups in your community. Network within your organization and with affiliated organizations. If you make networking a priority, your job search will be easier in the future. Employers may actually approach you! Debbie Brown is a career consultant and owner of D&B Consulting, Atlanta. She can be reached at (404) 240-8063 and Debbie@DandBconsulting. Visit her Web site at www.dandbconsulting.com.