Business Networking Basics

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Business Networking Basics

Business Networking Basics is by far the most successful job search technique. Do you know what the biggest barrier to your business success is? YOU!

Many people searching for a job are shy or embarrassed to ask for help from others. Truth is that most people are eager to help once they know that you are looking for a job. You don’t like to ask for help? Okay, so ask for advice, ask for information, ask for contact names.... just ask.

Why will people agree to give you all this advice and information? Basically, because it is human nature to want to help. But also, it is flattering to be asked for advice and many of these people value your relationship.

So who is in your network?

Personal network:

1. Friends
2. Family members
3. Neighbours
4. Acquaintances
5. Your banker, hairdresser, soccer team players etc.

Business network:

1. Colleagues in your current company (this may be tricky if you are still working)
2. Colleagues from other companies
3. People you sell to or buy from
4. People in your association

Step one is to write down a list of your network and prioritize whom you should contact first.

Obviously, contacting one of your network names is not the same as an interview, however the conversation is still very important.

Remember that each contact will be evaluating you. So make sure to be prepared.

i. What do you want to tell them about you?
e.g. why are you looking to change jobs?
ii. What type of work are you looking for?
iii. What is your objective for speaking to them?
iv. What do you want to ask them?
v. Be prepared to give (or send) them a copy of your resumé

Some information contacts can provide:

i. Opportunities within their companies,
ii. Opportunities within other companies,
iii. Information on the company or industry
iv. Suggestion and advice for your job search
v. And... Names of other contacts!

These other contact names will expand your network and give you a seemingly endless list of people to approach.

It is a good gesture to always send a thank you note after your conversation (add link to thank you note for contacts).
If you have not had the chance to give your contact your resume this would be a good opportunity to do so.

Finding your perfect job through your Business Networking Basics contacts may be quick or may take several weeks. Do not be discouraged. Follow-up with key contacts regularly and continue to generate more names for your contact list.

Business Networking Basics

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