When do you think networking is worthwhile?

8 Comments

1. Andrea Macek, Career Change Coach for Professional WomenMarch 31,2022 at 3:07PM UTC

   Great question and I would say networking is ALWAYS worthwhile and can support you at any stage of career. If you're leveling up, looking for change or just want to meet others, you can use networking.

   -To make sure you converse your energy I would first get really clear on why you're networking. That way you can reach out this that can offer support and you're not wasting time reaching out to everyone.

   -Start with who you know. That can make it feel less overwhelming and draining. Once you figure out your goal, tap into your network of friends and family (so overlooked!) and have casual conversations about what you want to know.

   -You can check out this article for phrases you can use when. networking along with the basics: https://fairygodboss.com/articles/if-you-hate-networking-these-9-cold-networking-phrases-that-will-actually-get-you-a-response

   If you have questions, feel free to reach out directly to me

   Email: andrea@aymconsulting.io or on LinkedIn and shoot me a DM.

   Good luck!

2. AnonymousMarch 31,2022 at 3:48PM UTC

   I think you build your network as you grow as a professional. That means you touch base as you meet new contacts, add them to your LinkedIn network, keep in touch when your co tacts reach out for help, etc.

   When I find out about something that might help certain contacts in my network I pass it along, I also reach out for ideas and tips when I need it and my network does the same. It ebbs and flows. But I try and network all the time. Conferences, professional organizations and new colleagues serve as great resources.

3. AnonymousMarch 31,2022 at 4:58PM UTC

   It is definitely worthwhile, but is a long term strategy. People remember you if you have helped them, or managed something promptly. They recommend you, or suggest openings.They like it if you support their projects. Fake networking gets you nowhere.

4. Heather GrahamMarch 31,2022 at 5:09PM UTC

   All the time. You have to make time for it. Make it part of your 'work hours'

5. AnonymousMarch 31,2022 at 5:35PM UTC

   Networking is very important. But making real connections is the only good use of time. I never found ‘networking events’ worth my time. It just seemed very superficial. Asking for help/advice from people that you’ve worked with in the past has always been more genuine. And offering to buy them coffee or lunch to talk more has been my go to move to make a more personal connection.

6. Alexis GladstoneMarch 31,2022 at 5:48PM UTC

   Networking is all about building relationships and that takes time. The first thing you need to do, is know what your objective is. That way you can pick the right events to attend.

   I wrote a 2-part blog about networking. The first is talking about how, and the 2nd talks about where. Maybe some information in them will be helpful.

   https://www.intelead.com/post/the-ins-and-outs-of-networking-part-1

   https://www.intelead.com/post/the-ins-and-outs-of-networking-part-2

7. AnonymousMarch 31,2022 at 10:06PM UTC

   My highest paid and most beneficial jobs have all been as a result of someone in my network recommending/introducing me. Those roles were never posted or advertised because they were executive positions and the companies selectively recruit for those and those positions bring high salary, large bonuses, stock and other perks.

   Several conracts in my network have also recommended me for several seats on boards and committees that have added a whole other layer to my career.

8. Anne MatsushitaApril 1,2022 at 3:40AM UTC

   I hear you! Networking can be beneficial before you need help, so that you have a support system in place. One way to do it is by reaching out no more than every 6 months, so it's not too time-consuming. You can use special occasions, like holidays, as a reason to touch base. The goal is to keep your name top of mind - it's not who you know, but who knows you!