I think there are several different things that can expand your networking strategies to make yourself successful. I believe that keeping in contact with people that you already know is the most important and beneficial strategy when networking. I have heard it plenty of times that landing a good job is 50% who you are and 50% who you know. By communicating with the people around you there may be a better chance of receiving a good recommendation for a new position. Another important strategy is to be proactive in meeting new people. Do not be afraid to put yourself out there and interact with others because you never know what their connections may be. Finally, use the new technology that is around us. There are so many different websites that can be useful when networking. Between sites like LinkedIn or even job search sites like Monster, there are many great tools around us that can lead to endless possibilities in the professional world.
DeAnn,
Good post, I agree with several of your points. I think that connections are very important to developing your career which can bring future job opportunities. Like you said also, once you make those connections you should cultivate them and remind them as to why they should seek to acquire your skills and talents. Professional networking shops also help you meet and establish connections with professionals in your field which in turn can be helpful in the future.
Do you see any negative in professional networking? I think it is more of 30% of what you know and 70% of who you know. You can be totally qualified and not know a connection or you could not know much and know everyone and find someway to get in.. That is just my take on it though.
Reply
Leave a Reply.
Author
My name is DeAnn Larrabee. I am a Physical Education teacher in Massachusetts. I coach soccer and basketball and I just recently got engaged to an amazing guy named Steve.