Networking 101: How to Build Meaningful Connections and Advance Your Career with Respect and Gratitude
Marc LeVine
Empowering Engineers & Advancing Careers | Talent Acquisition Manager, Blogger, Podcast Guest, Conference Speaker | Hiring those Built to Succeed in Control Systems Engineering for Thermo Systems
Networking isn't about collecting contacts or getting ahead at any cost. It's about building relationships with people who can help you grow and who you can help in return. - Dorie Clark.
Lily had just graduated from engineering school and was looking for her first job in the semiconductor industry. She had a few connections from college, including a former professor who worked at a company she was interested in. Lily contacted her former professor and asked if he could provide a referral or say a good word for her at the company. The professor was happy to help and connected Lily with the hiring manager he knew.
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With the referral and recommendation, Lily was offered an interview and eventually landed the job. Once she started working, she continued to leverage her connections by attending industry events and networking with other professionals in her field.
After college, Lily made a point of staying in touch with her former professor and other connections she had made, which helped her stay up-to-date with industry trends and advancements. Thanks to her willingness to build and maintain strong professional connections, Lily successfully launched her career in the industry and continued to grow professionally.
The Value of Building Strong Networks
Junior engineers need to learn how to leverage connections because having a solid network can help them advance in their careers and achieve their goals more efficiently. Connections can provide access to job opportunities, mentorship, and valuable industry insights. By building and maintaining professional relationships, junior engineers like Lily can better understand the industry and learn from experienced professionals. Additionally, connections can help junior engineers stay up-to-date with industry trends and technologies, benefiting their personal and professional growth.
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How Does One Get Started Building a Professional Network?
One way to get started is by contacting people you know and asking them if they can introduce you to anyone in your desired field. You can also attend networking events or conferences to meet new people and expand your network.
Another helpful strategy is to join professional organizations or online communities related to your industry and engage with other members.
Building connections takes time and effort, but it can be valuable in advancing your career.
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How do you appropriately and respectfully leverage your connections?
When you're starting to leverage your connections, it's essential to approach the process thoughtfully and respectfully. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Be clear about what you're looking for: Before contacting your connections, consider what you hope to gain from the relationship. Are you looking for job leads, industry insights, or mentorship? A clear idea of your goals will help you communicate your needs effectively.
2. Respect people's time: When you reach out to a connection, be mindful that they may be busy. Be clear and concise in your message, and avoid asking for too much at once.
3. Show gratitude: If someone is willing to help you, express your appreciation. A simple thank you note, or email can go a long way in building a positive relationship.
4. Pay it forward: If someone helps you out, consider ways that you can help them in return. Building a mutually beneficial relationship is critical to successful networking.
Overall, approaching your connections with respect, gratitude, and a clear sense of purpose can help you build meaningful relationships that will benefit your career in the long run.
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Marc LeVine is a Syracuse (NY) University graduate with a degree in Industrial Psychology; Marc is currently a Talent Acquisitions Manager at Thermo Systems. He received the Excellence in Talent Acquisitions Award from HR Awards in 2021.
Marc's prior employment includes senior Human Resources and Staffing Industry management roles with Edgewood Properties in Piscataway, NJ; Brickforce Staffing in Edison, NJ; InfoPro Inc. in Woodbridge, NJ and Plainsboro, NJ; and Harvard Industries in Farmingdale, NJ; a former Fortune 500 company. He also served as Director of Human Resources for New Jersey Press, the parent company of the Asbury Park Press, Home News and Tribune, and WKXW-NJ101.5. Earlier in his career, Marc served as Director of Career Services and Placement at Union Technical Institute in Eatontown and Neptune, NJ. In addition, Marc owned and operated Integrity Consulting Associates, a New Jersey-based Human Resources and Social Media Marketing firm, for 11 years. Marc also served as Council President in his Freehold Borough, NJ hometown.