Networking is all about building relationships. Unfortunately, most people do not know how to network effectively, and a matter of fact, they misconstrue networking to mean that someone out there is going to help them find a job just by them telling others that they are looking for work. Telling people in your immediate circle that you’re looking for a job is certainly one of the first steps, and at its most basic form, this is considered networking, but the true source of networking lies in relationship building/management. Here’s how to network effectively.

Step 1: Start by putting together a list of people in your network, this includes, family, friends, co-workers, colleagues, casual acquaintances, neighbors, and social media contacts. You’ll be surprised at how extensive your list is going to be.

Step 2: Identify the industries, jobs, and employers in your region that you would most like to work for. This involves doing some homework by researching businesses online, learning about their cultures, and identifying if you know anyone who works there or not.  

Step 3: Begin reaching out to contacts and make sure you are as specific as possible in your request. Whatever you do, DO NOT use the most generic networking line of all time, “Let me know if you hear of anything”.  I recommend that you develop a very well thought out networking pitch, here’s an example of an email that someone might send to a contact to request a face-to-face meeting:

“Hi Jen, I hope all is well. Do you have some time to meet up over coffee next week (I’ll pay)? I have been contemplating a career change and would love the opportunity to sit down with you to discuss.  I need some advice to aid me in my decision and would love to pick your brain a little. As you know, I have worked as a Web Manager for five years and I really enjoy my current job, however; my true passion has always been Digital Marketing Management. My goal is to transition into a new role as a Digital Marketing Manager within the next 3-5 months. Please let me know at your earliest convenience if you’re available. Also, I want to respect your time as much as possible because I know you’re very busy. I’m thinking 20-30 minutes should suffice. Is there anything I can do for you before we connect?”

Notice that the request was very specific! You do not want to waste your contact's time. Instead, you want to treat this opportunity as a gift. When the time comes to meet with your contact, you want to make sure that you show up prepared. Dress appropriately, smile, bring something to take notes on, and last but not least, make sure you send a follow-up email thanking the person you met with.

Lastly, do not be a hit-and-run networker. You want to follow-up with your contacts after you have acquired the position.  Thank them for their referral and assistance. Let them know whether you got the interview or the job. Or use the opportunity to report on the lack of success or the need for additional help. Remember, adopting an attitude of gratitude goes a really long way!

For more tips and expert advice on how to network and why it’s important, please contact a Michigan Works! office near you by clicking here:  Michigan Works Locator.

Richard Martin is a Project Manager with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, working with employers to provide expertise and connections to talent resources, partners, programs, and funding sources to companies as part of the MEDC's business attraction, retention, and development efforts.

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