Networking How Most People Find Jobs Most people get jobs as a result of networking versus responding directly to job ads. For some, networking comes naturally. For most people, networking is a skill that is learned and practiced, over time. To learn about networking opportunities, please visit our Workshop and Events web page. Use the resources below to enhance your networking skills and routine. What is networking & why does it matter? Networking is still the main way that people find out about and get access to opportunities. Networking is the process of developing connections with people who may have mutually beneficial information, projects, opportunities, and connections within a relevant professional, industry, or field. Many of the most successful people in the world are actively networking with many people everyday – through direct contact and social media platforms. Networking requires that we: Develop strong active listening skills Get comfortable talking about what we have to offer and need Discern what is relevant and strategic to share in any given moment Accept “yesses” and “no’s” Exercise respect Establish trust Follow-through Relevant resources: Take the Social Capital Quiz! The Importance of Career Networking What is Social Capital? Definition, Types, and Examples Virtual Networking – New Normal that Benefits College Students Elevator Speech / Networking Pitch Networking pitches (aka “elevator speeches”) can be scripted and rehearsed. However, when it comes time to use them, they are usually adjusted, on the spot, in order to suit a specific person and/or context. Here are the basic elements of a networking pitch – not all of which need to be included each time you meet a new person: Introduce yourself Find out about them – i.e. to find common ground Share relevant goals Share more about mutual interests and (potentially) beneficial topics, opportunities, contacts, etc. Offer assistance Ask for assistance Identify a way to follow through with them or each other Here other resources and models for your consideration: Perfect Pitch: How to Nail Your Elevator Speech How to Create an Elevator Pitch (with Examples) Interpersonal skills and attitude can have a tremendous impact on our networking style, as well as the results of networking. To the fullest extent possible: Stay positive, curious, and open Respond positively to “no’s” and/or transform “no’s” into “yesses” by exploring / presenting other possibilities Hone your active listening, observation, and information seeking skills over time Attend Networking Events Job & Career Fair tips GCC Workshop & Events page Types of Career Networking Events to Attend How to Find Networking Events Worth Going To Networking Tips for Social Events Professional Associations Joining one or more professional associations is a fantastic way to: Learn more about an occupation, industry, or field Build a relevant network of professional contacts Learn about employment opportunities – perhaps before others do Stay current in your field Learn the lingo used in a given industry, which fosters a sense of belonging and connection To find regional, state, and federal professional associations: Ask people you know, in the occupations or industries you are interested in, about what professional associations they would recommend. Wikipedia list of Professional Associations Onet Online More Networking Strategies Make a copy and fill in your Professional Contacts Spreadsheet Template Take the FREE Social Capital Quiz Learn about Social Media & ePortfolios Conduct Informational Interviews Learn Networking Tips for Students and Grads with Disabilities (video)