A Guide to Networking
Networking is critical in today’s job market. While it is a necessary component of the job search process, you
should always be focused on creating and building your network. Many times people wait until they need
professional assistance to connect or re-connect. It is certainly possible to build a network when looking for a
job. But, if you are currently employed—don’t wait! Always be aware if the valuable connections you could be
making.
What is Networking?
There is no denying that “Networking” is a nebulous concept. Here are a few definitions of networking that
may help in better understanding the process.
 Networking is the art of building alliances. (Riley Guide)
 Networking is simply "talking to people." (JobStar)
 Networking is the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business. (MerriamWebster)
Clearly, the definition of networking varies a bit from source to source. Pay particular attention to two things:
communication and cultivation. Rapport and relationships take time to develop. Creating a network takes a
concerted effort on all of our parts to communicate with professional contacts new and established.
Why Network?
It is a valid question! If only even slightly uncomfortable with the process, why would you want to put yourself
out there to network? Ultimately, the rewards can far exceed the momentary awkwardness of meeting
someone new or even reconnecting with someone you have not seen in a while. Here are many benefits you
can realize from networking. Here are a few:
 Gain a realistic understanding of what to expect in the “working world”
 Learn more about a job or field you are considering
 Narrow an employer target list through identifying which companies would be a better match for you
 Attain visibility and contacts in your professional area of interest
Strategic Networking
You don’t need to meet every single person out there when networking. That’s not to say an aerospace
engineer and a fashion designer could not be of great help to one another. Don’t discount any possibilities!
On the other hand, you certainly want to be smart about the way you go about networking. Select events and
individuals that will complement your professional goals. Here’s a framework for making your networking
more strategic.
 Establish purpose- What are your goals for networking? As we established above, there are plenty of
potential benefits—some of which you had not even hoped. Yet, it is always good to be able to tell a
potential networking contact where your interests lie.
Strategic Networking - continued
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Generate list of possible contacts/organizations relevant to your purpose- You can easily create a
spreadsheet that will enable you to list and track networking contacts. Some possible associated items
to record include: contact information, time/date of initial contact, meeting times, follow up, etc.
Certainly also investigate groups with which it would beneficial to connect. Know when those
organizations meet, associated costs, etc. and determine which groups would be most advantageous.
Begin contacting individuals and scheduling networking events- The level of potential success
experience does depend on a variety of factors. One of those things you can control is the effort you
put forth. If you create a plan for the number of contacts you’ll make in a time period or number of
networking events you’ll attend, you can check those off with the satisfaction that you are investing
effort into building your network.
It Is Who You Know
Your Network: You might be thinking, “My network? I have not yet put
any effort forth in the networking process!” That may be true but
consider who you already know that may be familiar with your character,
good work ethic, etc. These folks present a great place to start in
developing your network. Here are some ideas of individuals you’d want
to consider reaching out to regarding your professional goals: current
contacts (friends and family), classmates, professors you know, and past
supervisors.
One Step Away: Just think of all the meetings, conferences, classes, etc.
you’ve been in during the last few years. Have you introduced yourself to
each and every person? Of course you haven’t. None of us has. Yet,
when thinking in terms of your network, those might be forgone
opportunities. Think about opportunities you have relatively regularly to
grow your network with people who have common professional interests
or simply interest in seeing you succeed!
Networking Tips
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Approach the situation prepared
 Prep your elevator speech
 Learn as much as you can about the career field, company, etc…
 Know what you’d like to ask in advance
Treat networking contacts with respect and like knowledgeable resources
Thank people for their time and efforts
Never ask for a job *(There is a difference in letting people know you are looking for a job and
transferring the burden of helping you find a job. Be careful to not cross that boundary.)
Introductory Statement/Elevator Pitch
Central to networking is the ability to communicate who you are and your interests in a clear, yet concise
manner.
Components of your Intro
 Descriptive statements of your skills and abilities
 Academic and professional information that relates to your purpose or professional goals
 Interesting relevant accomplishments that showcase success
 Information on interests that may generate conversation
Statements to Consider
 I have extensive background in..
 In December, I completed my graduate degree in…
 I enjoy…
 My strongest skills are in…
Sample Introduction
My name is _____________. I am the <<TITLE>> at <<COMPANY>>. I completed my undergraduate
and master’s degrees in_____________, I’ve been working in ____________for almost 10 years. I
enjoy staying current on ______________and am attending this ________ meeting to learn more
about new technologies anticipated in this industry.
The Most Effective Form of Networking
Informational Interviews are largely considered the most effective form of networking when used in the right
way. While all people are not in a position to hire, most people would gladly provide insight to someone
interested in their field, company, etc. Informational Interviews provide an opportunity to have questions
answered about industry, career path, recommendations on job search strategy, etc. They are an excellent
way to build rapport with another professional.
Connecting Online
Certainly various social media tools assist us in making connections with people from our work and personal
background. That said, we have to be smart about which tools we use to connect with which constituents.
For professional interactions, LinkedIn is the clear tool of choice. Getting started is just this easy:
 Visit www.linkedin.com
 Create a profile including your : degree/major information and jobs information
 Connect with your current contacts
 Join the groups that relate to your school, professional area, interests
 Offer recommendations to and request recommendations from trusted colleagues
A Successful Networker’s Mindset
Give back! What can you do? The easiest way to jeopardize a networking relationship is to give off the vibe
that it is one sided. Networking is a two-way street. Look for opportunities to help others professionally.
Keep in touch Whether sending an article or a simple note to say hello, do remain in regular touch with your
contacts. Again, you don’t want to have to re-establish your network at the time you most need it.
Meaningful relationships It is not about quantity. Don’t set your sights on meeting everyone and trying
desperately to remember names. Focus on developing quality connections.
Offer thanks Sincerely thank contacts for time they spend with you at the time you’ve interacted. Follow up
with an email or note of thanks after the fact, too.