Just How Important is a Network?

If you haven’t tapped into your network, you might be selling yourself short. For years, I pooh-poohed the idea of serious networking—until I lost my job.

Then I realized the value of exchanging information, getting support, advice and assistance from others not only for the job search, but for a variety of other reasons. Remember the saying that “no one is an island?” Well, it’s true. We all need the support and cooperation of others to help us navigate through treacherous waters such as job searching or navigating on the job.

With the expansion of social and professional networking sites like Facebook and LinkedIn, it is easier than ever to build an online network, but networking is more than collecting contacts. It’s about making the connection and building relationships. Not sure how to network? Here are a few tips.

Who should be in your network?

• Identify what you need and whose support or advice you want. For instance, if you want to start your own business, think about whose support or advice you want.
• Think about how things typically get done. Are things generally done formally or informally? If you are not well-versed in formalities, then perhaps identify someone who can support or advise you in that area. Who has been successful in achieving results and influencing others? Find out how they use their networks.
• Determine what you can offer a network. Do you have special knowledge influence or expertise needed by others? Remember, networking is a two-way street.

Build your network

One of the exercises that can help you build your networking contacts is to make lists. No, seriously. A list can help you focus on who should be in your network. These lists may be your personal and/or professional acquaintances. To start, list your adult relatives, close friends and current or former neighbors. What about the professionals with whom you’ve done business such as your accountant, lawyer, contractor or others. Don’t forget about your contacts in religious or social organizations.

Think about your professional life. Do you belong to professional organizations as part of your work? Who do you know? List colleagues you have worked with in the past. This can include people in former places of employment. How about vendors, suppliers, consultants or customers you have worked with?

Talk to people about your objectives

Volunteer to work on a special project or committees

Who holds a position similar to yours or is in a business similar to yours? This is a good opportunity to share concerns, problems, and ideas.

Is there someone who is willing to act as your mentor?

Attend social events, meetings or seminars.

Join one or more industry or professional associations.

Networks, which are reciprocal, are based on common needs and similar interests. You have to realize the give and take nature of networks and offer to help others by sharing your ideas, time and resources.

Maintain your network

Networks are not static. They are constantly in motion. Nurture your network by contacting people periodically and helping when you can. Stay in touch to maintain relationships.