Networking, an essential skill in navigating the professional landscape, often poses a challenge for many individuals. According to LinkedIn’s research, a significant 44% of Gen Z candidates believe that lacking the right connections is the main obstacle in securing entry-level positions. This article explores effective strategies for networking, featuring insights from Nicole Leverich, LinkedIn’s chief communications officer, and input from professionals based in New York.
Utilise Your Existing Connections
Leverich emphasises the importance of beginning with the network you already have. She suggests connecting with former classmates, professors, past colleagues, friends, and family to build your network. Even if your network is initially small, it can expand rapidly by engaging with people from different facets of your life. Leverich, who relocated to San Francisco from a small Oregon town after college, attributes her networking success to volunteering for tasks others avoided, which helped her form connections early in her career.
Preparation and Gratitude Are Key
When reaching out online, Leverich advises doing thorough research before contacting someone. She highlights the value of referencing specific posts or shared interests to establish a connection. Keeping requests concise and manageable is crucial, and following up with a thank you note can leave a lasting positive impression. Leverich notes the scarcity of thank you messages she receives, stating that even a simple acknowledgment encourages future assistance.
Build Relationships Before They’re Needed
To prevent networking from feeling like a transactional interaction, Leverich recommends fostering relationships well before you need a favour. For those aiming to enter a specific industry, it’s advisable to start building contacts a year or two ahead of a job search. Leverich suggests considering how you can assist others when initialising contact, which may involve commenting on their posts or expressing an interest in their professional insights.
Practice In-Person Networking
For many, face-to-face networking events can be daunting. However, Leverich encourages beginners to start small, attending events for just 15 to 30 minutes initially. She suggests using simple conversation starters, like complimenting attire or inquiring about participation reasons, to ease into interactions. When it’s time to move on, deliver a straightforward farewell or use a casual excuse to gracefully exit a conversation.
Overcome the Fear of Rejection
Tackling the fear of rejection is often the biggest hurdle in networking. A sales professional in New York shares that she honed her networking skills during university by sending over 200 direct messages on LinkedIn, despite initial awkwardness. Her colleague Vicky Peterlin argues that networking success relies more on taking the initiative rather than possessing inherent skill, noting that rejection should not be feared.
Katherine Leopold from Greenwich Business School agrees that taking the first step is vital. Given the high volume of job applications, presenting your authentic self in person can make a significant impact. She advises articulating your unique skills and how they would benefit a prospective employer’s team.
Be Direct About Your Objectives
For those seeking guidance or opportunities, Madison Brown, who works in tech partnerships, advises being transparent about what you aim to achieve from an interaction. He stresses the importance of authenticity, which can significantly enhance your networking effectiveness and increase opportunities as doors open for genuine individuals.
Reporting based on coverage first published by bbc.co.uk.