If you are looking for a job, you have heard the term “networking.” Networking often is thought to involve getting together with other people and talking about your job search. While having a conversation about your search is part of networking, it’s not the whole story.
Put simply, networking is the art of connecting with other people, and it is a give-and-take relationship where ideas and information are exchanged. You can share information about your industry, for example, even if you’re not currently employed.
Networking also can be described as, “It’s not what you know that matters, it’s who you know.”
Networking groups help create the “who you know” part that is key to connecting with decision-makers and gathering information about job openings and career-growth opportunities.
If you are new to networking or have let your networking circles diminish, consider attending a networking group. These groups are designed to encourage networking and strengthen the skills that make networking so effective. Networking groups also can build your confidence, and give you a chance to help other people by sharing what you know.
The good news about networking is anyone can start at any point in life. Networking is not limited by age, degree, occupation or experience.
Did you know an average of eight to 11 career changes are now the norm for a worker’s career? This is just one reason your networking skills should be sharp and your network should be something you work on throughout your career.
