Here we've put together some tips on how to maintain and grow your network and what to look out for when networking.
Make an inventory: What networks (including sports associations, your choir, etc.) do you already belong to? Write them down. In a second step, think about what networks you could join to help you in your job search.
Consider what your specific networking goals are. You need to set these goals strategically and then pursue them persistently. Develop your profile in line with these goals.
Ask yourself how you want to use your network. Do you want to exchange information about your current situation and benefit from the experiences of like-minded people? Or are you looking for something more specific, such as an internship or a permanent position? Will your next step be a promotion? Networks can support you in achieving your goals if you choose them wisely.
No matter what your goals are, they should be SMART:
S = specific
M = measurable, verifiable
A = attainable
R = realistic, relevant
T = time-bound (to be realized within a specific period of time)
You have defined a goal. Now it is time to sharpen your profile. What does your network see of you? How can you make yourself known to employees, recruiters, and HR managers at well-known companies?
One way to raise your profile is to use the elevator pitch.
As a student or graduate, you can never start networking too early because you never know whom you will meet and what doors your encounter will open. You can network almost anywhere – at a party, on vacation, and at a business meeting. Networking is about consciously expanding your relationships with other people. This usually happens in person, be it verbally or in writing. Always be friendly when networking, and listen attentively to others. Offer help first, instead of jumping right in to ask for specific career support.
Networking is useless without contact maintenance since your network will only benefit both sides if there is reciprocity. That does not mean you have to talk on the phone every week. However, networking is not a one-way street but a constant give and take. For example, you can forward interesting articles, recommend someone, or offer help when needed and desired.
Students and graduates, but also professionals, are often slow to activate their network for their own careers. Questions such as “Isn’t it impertinent to write and ask about vacancies?” are not uncommon. Many also find this approach too opportunistic. This is possible if you have not followed the advice described above (i.e., asking for help before offering help yourself, only taking instead of giving, and asking for help too late when it is already very urgent).
Our advice: Nothing ventured, nothing gained! As long as you remain polite, the worst is a rejection.
Of course, it is possible that the person you have contacted does not have a dream job for you. But maybe they have heard that another company is looking for someone, or they will remember you in a few months when they have an opening.
One thing is clear: If you ask politely, you will not make a wrong impression - in fact, most people will be impressed that you are confident enough to take the initiative.
Your networking strategy should be a good fit for you. This refers not only to your character but also to your field of study or the industry you want to work in. Are you very introverted yet often force yourself to go to networking events to make awkward small talk? You don’t have to! Of course, networking always involves stepping out of your comfort zone a bit – you are interacting with strangers, after all. However, you can also find a networking strategy that suits you as a person. If you do not like to talk about yourself, but you do like to talk about specific topics, then network at talks, meetups or online – you will probably make an even better impression than with superficial and awkward conversations at a more general networking event.