It can be easy to throw in the towel when it comes to networking especially after you have experienced some negative replies. The lack of results can demotivate the most ambitious individual – it’s only human nature. However, networking is and will always be an important factor in your career growth.
The problem with most failed networking responses has nothing to do with you personally, rather it could be attributed to their comfort level in helping you. It’s not uncommon for contacts to secretly feel embarrassed to tell you they can’t really help you or that they will never need your help. Rather than admitting this, they leave you to guess why they can’t help.
There are a several reasons why your contacts might not be helpful: time issues, reciprocated favors, lack of knowing how to help, assisting others, and ineffective networking skills on their behalf.
Often friends and social contacts are great buddies but have less than stellar networking skills themselves and misinterpret the need to interact by sharing information.
One of the paradoxes that happens frequently when people contact one another is that once their necessity for information is fulfilled they drop off the map in returning favors for others. A good example is how people leave job search groups, not with gratitude and offers to return favors but by asking contacts to take them off the networking list because they have landed a new job.
The misunderstanding that connecting with others is a one-time event with no need to continue when you no longer need people keeps you in the loop of scrambling for help and feeling disappointed when nothing is reciprocated.
Here are some ways you can have more success with your contacts:
• Make sure and tell your contacts their help will not be forgotten and you are more than willing to return the favor.
• Identify those who are takers and givers, adjust your expectations. Contacts who continually take without giving back more than likely will not be helpful and do not fully understand relationship building.
• Always demonstrate of spirit of wanting to help, contacts can easily become fatigued in helping ungrateful networkers. Refrain from making the discussion all about you – ask about their needs.
• Be aware of when you are crossing the line from being a pest to being persistent. Don’t become overly dependent on them as your sole sources of job leads instead broaden your circle of contacts. Following up is important however monitor how often you are reaching out to them.
• Don’t use the “keep your eyes and ears open” request. It does not help your contacts and is ineffective in receiving information. Instead do your research first and ask your contacts for specific information.
• Follow up with every lead your contacts share with you. Doing so sends a message that you appreciate their time and willingness to help.
• Always give your contacts closure. When contacts do help, keep them informed. It supports your future communication and builds a trusting relationship.
Have you had to overcome a lack of response from your contacts?
