Why should I network? If you want to improve your chances of securing a suitable, meaningful job, networking is a crucial skill to have. There is a hidden job market. Often companies may be looking to hire someone but have yet to post the position. If you know someone at the company, they may let you know about the position. Even if you apply for a job through the normal submission process, having someone at the company that can recommend you will give you an advantage over other candidates.

Step 1. Make a Plan

Before you begin networking, ask yourself a few questions. Whom do I want to speak to? What am I trying to accomplish? Am I looking for a job? Do I want to learn about a field?

Networking can include:

• Writing a friend, family member or neighbor for professional purposes

• Attending events that center on your area of interest

• Connecting with someone on LinkedIn.

Once you have identified who you want to meet, contact them. If you are writing to them, keep your note brief and respectful. Be sure to explain your interest and include your contact information.

If you are at an event, prepare a list of questions beforehand, and research who this person is before speaking to them. Keep the focus of the conversation on the other person and if they ask you about yourself, be prepared with your “elevator pitch” and tell them about yourself and your goals.

Step 2. Network with Those Around You

If getting a job is your goal, let your contacts (friends, family, etc.) know what role you are seeking. They may be able to connect you with an individual they know at a company.

Step 3. Meet People You are Interested in and Keep an Open Mind

Sometimes when you meet someone at an event, they will suggest others in addition or instead of themselves that you should meet due to common interests in a field or industry. Keep track of their suggestions. Ask for business cards. You can put a note about the person and the date of the event you met them at on the back of the card for future reference.

Step 4. Ask Yourself What You Can Offer Someone Else

Ask yourself:

• What do I have to offer someone else?

• In a networking relationship, what can I contribute to another person?

• What strengths of mine are unique, and how can I best make use of them?

Networking is like any other relationship. The more you develop a professional relationship that involves some degree of reciprocity, instead of solely focusing on what you can receive, the better the relationship will become.

Step 5. Brainstorm New Goals and Maintain Relationships

Maintaining relationships long-term can be challenging but is an important aspect of networking. Check-in with your contacts throughout the year to see how they are doing. If you only contact them when you have a favor to ask, they may not be willing to help you. 

Networking is very important for your career, so get out there and start getting connected!