Smart Networking

Smart Networking

by  on June 21, 2014 
Networking is essential for career success. Yet, there are right and wrong ways to do it. For example, it’s critical to find mentors who are willing to help you, but if you monopolize the time of someone you just met, act like a know it all, ask them questions that are too broad or that could have been found with a quick internet search, or do not show gratitude for their time or the information they have shared with you, they may not be excited about meeting with you again.
 Person Annoyed by Others Talking
Some tips for good networking include:
  • Preparing in advance for interviews,
  • Scheduling a time to meet with a mentor or potential mentor rather than just dropping in and trying to network,
  • Asking questions that show interest in the person with whom you are meeting,
  • Writing thank you notes after meeting with someone, and
  • Staying in touch after networking.
Also, remember that networking is a two way street…give back to the people you network with by helping them in some way in order to show that you are not only taking from them, but willing to help as well.
Networking is an important part of your career success as the people you meet can teach you about certain jobs or inform you about different opportunities in your field. Smart networking could give you a competitive advantage and will serve you well.
Edited by: Dr. Mikki Sherwood
Resource
Navarro, A. (2011). Good networking/Bad networking. Physician Executive, 37(1):58-60.
For further information on networking mistakes see:
*Originally posted on the Career Skillet website (Permission granted by Jill Bowers).

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