I recently delivered a talk for a large group of job searchers about networking. As in how to land more connections, more interviews, and gain more confidence.
If more job searchers were more serious about networking, there would be less job searchers. Harsh, I know. Of course, I understand that it’s a downer to be out of work and it takes its toll emotionally and mentally.
Here are the six main ideas I shared during my talk that can be applied to job searchers, business owners, service providers, those looking to recruit, make friends, or find the love of their life.
No really.
Positive Mindset
Confidence is high. Your goal is to meet at least two people you like, learn, and have fun. Nobody can stop you from doing that. Except you. Your approach should be to talk about fun things, then work things, and explore ways you can help one another achieve more of both. Show up to events and meetings (live or online) with a win-win mindset!
Target Market
Think about the industry, profession, situation, and geography (if relevant) your perfect potential hiring manager or client is in. That’s your target market! In fact, what specific companies do you want to hire you? Make your list and check it twice! So important. You will absolutely have more success if you go a mile deep rather than a mile wide. Then, who specifically do you need to meet?
Communication Strategy
Create important questions that you would ask the people you meet. About them! What brings you here? How did you learn about this meeting? What are you working on now? What are some of your interests outside of work? Who do you want to meet? Why? What are some of your New Year goals? How can I help? Also, know how to talk about what you do and what you’re looking to do. Be specific. As appropriate, ask for help.
Location, Location, Location
Conferences, conventions, professional associations, networking groups, mastermind organizations, chamber mixers, social clubs, service clubs, country clubs, boards, golf, pickleball, quilting, or wherever your most likely referral partners hang out. By being active in groups and inviting plenty of guests that matter to you, you can leverage most organizations by surrounding yourself with the right people.
Follow Up
Without a next step, nothing good will come out of most connections you might make when networking. If you’re the one that makes the introduction, sends the document, plans the next event, or schedules the next time to discuss the thing, it may not happen. If you follow up on the next step within 24 hours of the first encounter, you’ll almost guarantee a second encounter.
Staying in Touch
“What might be the best way for us to stay in touch?” Great question to use when setting up your next set of calls, meetings, or invites. Out of sight is out of mind. How can you leverage software, your calendar, and other systems (like the phone!) to keep you in front of prospects, clients, and referral partners?
If you’re serious about getting out of job search, growing your business, or expanding your social network – follow me, or reach out directly.
That is, if you’re serious.