Networking Doesn't Have to Suck ?

Do you physically recoil when you hear the word “networking” ??? I get it. Yet, networking is an essential skill for career advancement. Consider that 76% of professionals agree that knowing the right people is key to getting ahead in life but only 22% are actively looking for networking and mentorship opportunities. And more than 70% of new jobs are secured by networking, not online job boards. (Yikes ??!)

Don’t worry.

Networking, like most skills, can be learned with the right focus, mindset and practice. Even better, Equipt can help.

For a lot of twentysomethings, the habit of networking hasn’t been formed yet. You may have started your first professional job during the pandemic and haven't been exposed to networking. Maybe you're are unsure how to do it or worry you are doing it wrong. Or, simply haven't prioritized the time to network.

Admittedly, I spent the first 10 years of my career heads down, oblivious to the importance and power of networking. Things changed when I began working with a much younger colleague who was a proficient networker. In fact, I was so impressed by her skill and effectiveness that I became her student. I observed how she expertly handled cold calls, crafted outbound emails, and navigated cocktail parties and large conferences full of strangers. She was a total pro! And she advanced quickly, helping us grow our agency as well as our organizational networking capability ??.

My younger colleague also let me in on a big secret about networking.

Networking at its core is about connection. Relationships. It’s that simple. And it’s an essential skill because it’s how you learn about new career opportunities, get access to mentors, gain insight on industry trends or peer compensation, tap into emotional support during challenging times, and grow your confidence.

Like anything that’s worthwhile, it’s a learning journey that takes time, practice and commitment. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts when networking with someone in-person or via phone / video conference.

DO….

1. Have a clear goal??? Know what you want to learn and keep it manageable. Your goal might be learning about their company culture, understanding the path to promotion, whether an advanced degree is recommended, or uncovering the most important skill they have cultivated in their role.
2. Lead the conversation??? Prepare some thoughtful questions in advance and drive the conversation without over-talking. Be curious about their answers and resist the urge to rush to the next topic. Listen intently.
3. Add value??? Identify something you can bring to the conversation as a “reverse mentor” such as a new research study about your industry or generation, a cool tool, a point of view on the company’s new product, or maybe you have social media expertise to share. Your value to offer might not be obvious until you are in the conversation.
4. Say thank you??? Be gracious. Let them know you appreciate their time and perspective in the moment. The importance of this can not be overstated.
5. Follow up??? Every time. Without exception. It’s crucial to formally express your gratitude quickly. Email is efficient and effective, especially if you include links or attachments. A handwritten note on high-quality paper can help you stand out and be memorable (although may not reach the recipient in a timely manner).
6. Track your contacts??? A simple spreadsheet can help you log the notes from each conversation, track the follow-up and create a reminder alert for a simple check-in and update in 3-4 months. Download?Equipt's Networking Tracker?to get you started!
7. Be generous??? Think about what you can proactively share in future communication – an article, a success story, or how you effectively incorporated their insight or advice. And, be open to others who want to network with you based on your role, company or industry experience.

?? PLEASE DON’T… Read more on the blog >

Pineapple?is a relatively new networking app designed for Gen Z. They promise networking to “feel fun, not forced.” It borrows some of the pragmatism of LinkedIn and combines it with the visual appeal of Instagram – for a whole new way to connect with peer professionals ??.

LinkedIn may not be new or cool ??, but it remains a great way to connect with others in your industry, stay connected to classmates, and follow up after an industry event. To sharpen your LinkedIn profile, Equipt sponsored?Power Up Your Profile?with Heather Spiegel, a leading talent recruiter, who offers great tips and insights for presenting your best self ??. Watch the replay >

Maybe you have a little anxiety about upping your networking game or worry about getting everything perfect. Perfection is the enemy of progress. For a dose of inspiration and determination, read?Brave, Not Perfect: Fear Less, Fail More, and Live Bolder?by Reshman Saujani, founder and CEO of Girls Who Code ??.

I know I need to invest in building more relationships, but I haven’t made the time. I think Covid made me complacent. Now, I’m not sure if I’m lazy or just nervous. What do you suggest???- Megan, 26

Read more on the blog>

Think of networking as planting seeds. Some of them will sprout, some will need more water and others will grow into flourishing flowers?. Make it a habit and you’ll be amazed at the opportunities that blossom for you.

Networking doesn’t have to suck. With a little practice, it can be fun, inspiring and game-changing. Relationships are the seedlings of your career.

Are you ready to?sow????

You are now?equipt?to network like a pro ??,

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Kelly Mooney

Founder and Chief Empowerment Officer

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Kelly Mooney

Founder and Chief Empowerment Officer