Start with A Plan to Grow Your Network

You’ve heard people tell you to network your way to a new job. But that seems easier said than done. You need a plan to grow your network.

Maybe you don’t have a network or you don’t like to network or perhaps you don’t know how to network. Before you worry about any of this, let’s start by developing a plan to grow your network.  

The chances of your securing your next job solely because you post your resume online are slim. Can it happen? Sure. But, when was the last time you were struck by lightning?  Those are the kinds of odds I’m talking about.

Why Networking Matters for Your Job Search

Companies use a variety of sources to promote their job openings and attract candidates. Your goal is to discover jobs through as many of these sources as possible. To do this, you need a networking strategy.

Here are some popular ways recruiters find talent:

• Employee referrals
• Recruiter (internal)
• Job Boards (Indeed, Glassdoor, etc)
• LinkedIn
• Company career website
• Recruiter/Agency (3rd party)
• Campus recruiting
• Talent communities

One of the best ways to get referred for a job is to meet people who can refer you. That would mean you have to meet employees (or former employees).

Your networking strategy starts by purposefully growing your network. What I’m talking about is purposefully and genuinely expanding the people you interact with and share information with.

It’s always better to grow your network before you need it!

Identifying Key Connections for Your Network

Think about who you need to know. Who are the people who are well-connected or influential in your target industry or occupation? (This can be difficult if you haven’t thought about it before.)

Employees – Current and Past

Look for employees (current and past) of the company you are interested in working for.

People In Your Industry or Occupation

Meeting people in your desired industry or occupation helps you stay informed about what’s going on. Meet people at MeetUp, online forums, or just reach out to “talk shop.”

Recruiters (Internal and 3rd Party)

I don’t really think you want to “network” with recruiters but they are good people to connect with on LinkedIn. Typically, recruiters are busy filling open jobs and will only be interested in speaking with you if they have an open requisition and you meet the requirements. However, do add them to your network.

Thought Leaders

Who are the people in your industry or occupation you need to meet because they do their job really well or are recognized as top performers?  You may find them appearing in a trade publication, association newsletters or even the newspaper.  They win awards, give presentations, hold leadership positions. Don’t forget to look inside your organization too.

Start creating a “Wish List” of people you would like to meet.

Strategies for Making New Connections

How will you connect with these people you “need to know?” Reaching out through email isn’t likely to get a response. So what do you do?

1. Ask your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, everyone, if they know this person and if they might be able to introduce you. 

You will need to explain to everyone WHY you want to meet them. Bear in mind, that it isn’t just about what you need. Think about what you can offer the person you are asking to meet with.

Can you be a resource to them? Can you flatter their ego? Can you introduce them to someone? Will the conversation with them help them feel like they are giving back? Knowing what you can offer in return requires a bit of thinking and perhaps research.

2. Look for their name on LinkedIn.

It is pretty easy to find out who knows who. If you are 2nd-degree connections, ask the person you know for an introduction or ask if you can use their name when you reach out.

3. What professional associations or groups do they belong to?

If you are in the same profession, see if the person you want to meet attends any of those meetings. You will meet other professionals in your profession so it is probably worth your time to attend those meetings.

4. Are they delivering a presentation?  

A google search for the person’s name can help you see if they are being mentioned in the news. But also check LinkedIn to see if they are promoting any speaking engagements or presentations.

Crafting Your Networking Approach

When reaching out to new contacts:

• Clearly explain your purpose for connecting
• Offer value in return (be a resource, provide introductions, etc.)
• Be genuine and sincere in your communication

For more help, you can read How To Ask For An Informational Meeting

Overcoming Networking Challenges

I know, in theory, this sounds really simple.  It is much more difficult to carry out. But don’t let that be the reason you don’t do it.

Rejection will happen. But it only takes one great conversation with someone who says yes to keep you motivated.

Networking Education

• Ask people you know who are really good networkers for advice.
• Read books and blogs and listen to podcasts about networking.

By implementing this strategic approach to growing your network, you’ll significantly improve your chances of discovering unadvertised job opportunities and advancing your career.