For some, it’s a fun and exciting opportunity to meet new people and form relationships. For others, it’s a scary proposition to awkwardly interact with a bunch of strangers. Whichever of these categories you fall into, it is likely you have had some experience with networking in your career.
Most professionals know that networking can be a powerful tool that can make a difference in their career, yet many are hesitant or even avoid it altogether. In fact, 53 percent of working adults and job seekers do very little or no networking, even though 89 percent believe networking is beneficial, according to a new University of Phoenix® School of Business survey.
Professionals are also seeing a change in the concept of networking thanks to the evolution of social media. Tools like LinkedIn connect you with potential employers and fellow industry professionals at the click of a button. Online events, like TweetChats and Google Hangouts, allow you to interact with people who share common interests without leaving the comfort of your home or office.
With the advancement in and increased popularity of online platforms like these, it’s not surprising to learn that half (50 percent) of working adults and job seekers say they have networked on social media, with 17 percent saying they have utilized a career-focused website. But can, or perhaps the question is, should online networking replace traditional face-to-face interaction?
While social networking expands our ability to connect with professionals all over the world, professionals should employ a face-to-face networking strategy outside of the workplace to maintain a strong presence in their local professional community. Community events, conventions or trade shows, local industry events, or business or industry happy hours, are all great opportunities to expand your network.
Whether you are transitioning to a new job, seeking a promotion or re-careering, in today’s competitive job market, who you know and the relationships you have can make all the difference. Those who network have seen positive results such as finding new job opportunities, earning support from a person higher in the company, and receiving a raise or promotion.
Here are the top five tips University of Phoenix School of Business Academic Dean Rhonda Capron identified for working adults to engage in successful networking :
Most professionals know that networking can be a powerful tool that can make a difference in their career, yet many are hesitant or even avoid it altogether. In fact, 53 percent of working adults and job seekers do very little or no networking, even though 89 percent believe networking is beneficial, according to a new University of Phoenix® School of Business survey.
Professionals are also seeing a change in the concept of networking thanks to the evolution of social media. Tools like LinkedIn connect you with potential employers and fellow industry professionals at the click of a button. Online events, like TweetChats and Google Hangouts, allow you to interact with people who share common interests without leaving the comfort of your home or office.
With the advancement in and increased popularity of online platforms like these, it’s not surprising to learn that half (50 percent) of working adults and job seekers say they have networked on social media, with 17 percent saying they have utilized a career-focused website. But can, or perhaps the question is, should online networking replace traditional face-to-face interaction?
While social networking expands our ability to connect with professionals all over the world, professionals should employ a face-to-face networking strategy outside of the workplace to maintain a strong presence in their local professional community. Community events, conventions or trade shows, local industry events, or business or industry happy hours, are all great opportunities to expand your network.
Whether you are transitioning to a new job, seeking a promotion or re-careering, in today’s competitive job market, who you know and the relationships you have can make all the difference. Those who network have seen positive results such as finding new job opportunities, earning support from a person higher in the company, and receiving a raise or promotion.
Here are the top five tips University of Phoenix School of Business Academic Dean Rhonda Capron identified for working adults to engage in successful networking :
- Be generous. When forming a new relationship, think about what you can offer that person as part of this networking relationship. Instead of scanning the room and thinking, “What can these people do for me,” approach each new relationship with generosity.
- Be authentic. Approach networking with openness and authenticity. Get to know people on a personal level, understand the role they play, and be genuinely interested in who they are. From this perspective, networking can be a much less daunting and more rewarding process.
- Don’t forget about external networking. Professional organizations (e.g. SHRM, Chamber of Commerce, etc.) are an incredible resource for ongoing networking opportunities with people who have similar professional interests. Affiliations with these groups allow you to gain a more comprehensive perspective of your field.
- Keep social media accounts current. Before attending a networking event, look closely at your social media platforms to make sure they contain the latest contact information and job history.
- Practice your elevator speech. If you were trapped in an elevator for 30 seconds and had to introduce yourself, what would you say? What are your strengths and weaknesses, background and accomplishments? What do you bring to the table that is unique? Jot notes down on an index card and practice prior to attending an event.
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