By Sarah Breen, Inside Recruiter Resume Editor
Networking is a key aspect of the job hunt. Referrals are 5x more effective than a blind application to a position (Jobvite). With this in mind, it can be challenging to handle networking situations when the idea of striking up a conversation with a new person feels more like a daunting task than a fun social event. Here are four tips for handling this seemingly awkward situation:
Find beneficial networking opportunities:
Spend your time wisely and find networking opportunities that will have the maximum benefit for the time you are using. Finding the local chapter to a professional association in your field of interest is a great place to start. Doing a quick online search for professional groups in your area will garner a list of options. The best way to check if it is a quality group is if they offer a job board and networking activities. By having items such as these, it means they’re in the business of getting you jobs and contacts! The events will likely have a fee to attend, but can be a lower price or free if you become a member. Also, check out online event scheduling pages like EventBrite. Companies in your area may be having an open door event that can get you in front of key constituents.
Know what to wear:
Sometimes a full suit is too much for a networking event. See if you can find information about the previous year's event, as most networking events are annual occurrences. Typically, pictures get posted so you can get an idea of whether it is business-dress or business-casual. It is advisable that you step-up your outfit game and be one of the more professionally dressed attendees without going overboard. No tux/evening gown needed unless, of course, the occasion calls for formal wear!
Know your targets:
Try to find a list of attendees. Whether it’s a company name or the attendee's name, you can do some background research and find out more about the company/person. Having related information can give you talking points. You can find out more about a person's employment background through LinkedIn.
Don’t have a LinkedIn Profile? Make one! You will want to connect with those you spoke with after the event. Need help with your LinkedIn? Check out all the services provided by Inside Recruiter to get your page to All-Star status.’
What to bring:
Business cards. Yes, you may be looking for a new position, but you wouldn’t walk around advertising that. You want to show your genuine interest when talking to others and create meaningful connections that aren’t based only on the other person helping you – networking is a two-way street! When you get home, connect with them on LinkedIn with a message about how great it was to meet them at the event and that you’d love to get together for coffee sometime. Then, in the future, if a position opens up at their company, you can get in touch with your new friend and casually ask about the company environment to see if you are a good fit. Your new connection will give you a better insight and with a good strong connection be willing to give you that referral.
What tips do you have networking as an introvert? Leave a comment below!
