“Go Network” They Say

"Go network" - so over-loaded and over-used.

Here are a few first assumed questions of an active job seeker who needed a new opportunity, like yesterday...

1. Where do I find the time to make new friends? I don't need new friends, I need new opportunity.
2. Who should I even be meeting? What groups should I join?
3. Do I want to network professionally, personally, or both? How do I distinct?
4. What should I consider 'a win' from these new interactions?
5. What value do I have to offer, how do I give back?

All GREAT questions. But you've got to get organized and take a beat. Or else you'll drive yourself mad.

*Big Headliner - You don't have to be everyone's friend. You actually don't have to be anyone's friend. Plus, faking a friendship to gain new opportunity is a no-no. So what's the happy medium?

Respect yourself first, and other will follow.

Whether at work, at a networking event, or on a call with a recruiter - stand in your power. Respect both yourself and others by making the time valuable. Know your intention, display your merit, be inquisitive, and be honest. In doing so, you'll radiate confidence.

*Having confidence in oneself and one's abilities can positively impact various aspects of life, including personal growth, professional achievements, and overall well-being.

Being in the recruiting industry, here are my top networking tips for active job-seekers.

1. Be proactive

You're going to have to take initiative. Whether that's researching recruiters to reach out to, identifying networking groups, or reaching out to your friends, family, colleagues for introductions. Remember, you're the initiator in every scenario. Own it and get comfortable making the first move.

* Also get comfortable following up. There's nothing wrong with following up, and people appreciate (need) reminders.

2. Be honest about your agenda – don’t make them guess

In any new interaction, stating your intention is key. Think of an intro that will quickly inform someone of who you are, what you do, and what you're hoping to achieve. For example:

* My name is Lauren, I'm an executive recruiter, and I'm looking to share helpful insights to job seekers and recruiters while also establishing my professional credibility amongst my network.

3. Be real and relatable by being genuine and authentic

There's always been something super fishy about the overly interested overly friendly stranger. It's uncomfortable for everyone involved. Just be yourself! And listen, not everyone will accept you with open arms (that's life), and that's okay. Keep it moving and keep it 100.

* Real recognizes real

4. Care to listen

The worst is someone, in a 1 on 1, who talks and never listens. A conversation works both ways. If you're initiating, take some time to consider insightful questions. Questions that relevantly display your intentions and goals.

* Pro tip - Ask questions that you would like to answer yourself. Instead of saying "I'm a tenured executive with TalkALotIncorportated and also an expert in SoCool industry", inquire on their tenure and industry first. Eventually it will be your turn.

5. Be helpful, and give back

Not everything needs to be tick for tack. However, if someone is taking time out of their day to talk to you, to help you, you should be thinking about what value you can bring to the table. Sometimes, it's apparent. When it's not, it's 100% okay to ask. They will let you know and you can assess your ability to help. To give back.

6. Follow up, maintain relationships

This can be tricky. Even for me as a recruiter, I'm navigating this one. How often do I follow up? What do I even say? Would it be a bother?

The key question to ask yourself - Do you have value to bring to the conversation? Is there something common, valuable, or relevant to follow up with. Is there a favor that you're hoping to ask? If not, then maybe try to assess your intentions. Remember, faking friendships is a no-no.

* As a recruiter, I've gotten to meet some of the best candidates - executives and non-executives. For candidates that I've spent a lot of time with, or for candidates who've I've placed, I do have the green-light to reach out with genuine questions. "How are you", "How is your family doing", "How is the new job treating you".

7. Diversify your network

This tip is in my top 3. It's so important!

If you limit your network to who you already know - well - you're stagnant and not growing your network. Similarly, if everyone in your network is from the same background, same industry, same economic status, and of same ethnicity...how do you expect that to change? The statistics are not in your favor. Your network will be what it always has been.

* Plus, diversifying who you interact with on a regular basis comes with a breadth of new knowledge. Aren't we all on this Earth to connect, learn, and to grow? BINGO.

8. Attend events

Look - not everyone is so lucky to be in recruiting. Networking is my job, it's what I do. For the remote developers, for example, you've gotta take an extra step to get out there. I'd recommend starting with networks aligned in industry, location, age, values, religion, etc. From there, meet and greet! Everyone is there to meet new people (plus food & drinks). Now is the time to relax, talk about your passions, meet new people and ask good questions! You're here to learn.

* In a perfect world, you'd ideally use your first networking group to identify more networking groups. You don't have to like them all. You're looking for one that you like and one that is beneficial. All networking groups are not the same.

9. Know your own experience like the back of your hand

You're in the game now. You've done all of this prep work, found a networking group, and you're ready to put it all to action. You're looking good because that's a given - but you've gotta be able to match your physical swag with your professional swag.

* Some of us are not good at talking about ourselves - very selfless and modest. That's okay. You don't have to brag. However, you should have a general overview of the types of companies you've supported, the roles & responsibilities you've had, and for sure mention any SME status (Ex: If you've been in said industry for 10 years, let them know).

10. Network on LinkedIn, too

A good friend of mine shared a few quick tips with me around LinkedIn's algorithm. It is in your benefit to engage with other people's post. It's vital if you're looking to grow your online network. Start by picking a few topics that you're passionate about, and find the professionals who are actively having these discussions. Remember, your thoughts are valuable to add to the conversation!

It’s a long game, have patience

These things can take time. Whether you've just started your career, or whether you're a tenured exec looking for your first C-suite opportunity, it takes time. Build your network, stay connected with your network, and the biggest key - DON'T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP.

* HELP = do you have applicable opportunities? do you know anyone with applicable opportunities? my experience is x, is there anyone you could introduce me to? do you have any advice in helping me find a next opportunity?

All are fair and okay questions to ask.

"Go Network" they say. I hope the phrase now brings you LESS anxiety. Just one step at a time.