04.16.08
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Email ThisI have noticed a ton of great posts lately that are dedicated to the subject of networking. I have said it before but I truly believe that in this world, especially in public relations it is indeed who you know that matters. It is also very important to keep in mind what networking can and can’t do for you.
Although I know this, sometimes I get so caught up with the craziness of work that I have to stop and go over the basics again, just to make sure I am being as efficient as I should be.
Here are a few refresher tips I have picked up in the last couple of weeks:
- Get back to people in a timely manner – Even if it is just a quick email to let them know you got their message and will be responding soon. There is nothing worse than sending out a time sensitive message and then never getting an answer, or getting one way after the deadline.
- Use online social networking resources like Facebook and LinkedIn. – They are absolutely essential to creating a personal brand that people will remember.
- Maintain regular contact even if it is only a friendly hello. You want people to remember you and what you represent. Remember to help the people in your network. The golden rule and basic karma do apply, it will come back to you.
- You are your brand and what you do outside the office matters. “Do you have a company bumper sticker on your car? Maybe you don’t want to flick that person off. Do you wear a t-shirt with your work logo on it? Perhaps you shouldn’t wear it when you go out to the bar.” (Rachel Robbins)
- Don’t be afraid to ask for an introduction. You don’t want to be pushy, but you never know the contacts you are missing if you don’t ask. What’s the worse thing that could happen? They could say no….big deal. When given the chance to meet new people, jump at it. I have met some of the greatest contacts just by being open minded.
- Post regular comments that are interesting and that serve to continue the conversation. Peruse the blogs you like on a regular basis and become a regular contributor. Better yet, start one of your own. If the author or anyone else responds to a comment you make, reply. Just be sure to post thoughtful and knowledgeable comments, never be nasty or post replies that will come back to bite you. (Bloggers Law) If they can….they will.
- Use a multi-media approach to make your network more efficient. Sites like YouTube can help you do just that. “They say that “A picture is worth 1000 words,” but how much do you think a video of you is worth?…1,000,000 words? With video, it communicates your brand through a different medium…” (Scott Bradley)
- Join professional interest groups like PRSA or online professional groups like Brazen Careerist. This is a great way to connect with like-minded professionals that may have similar questions. They also provide great feedback opportunities and are usually a little more in depth as far as for connecting, than sites such as Facebook.
- Don’t stretch yourself too thin. Doing great at a few things looks a heck of a lot better than doing half-assed on a ton of things. Be aware of your responsibilities and if you think there might be any kind of professional conflict, stop and check it out before things get out of hand.
- Accept that life is crazy and making a name for yourself and developing a successful career involves being a little imbalanced. It’s OK not to be a super-mom or dad.
Life is hectic, but it is also what you make of it. Get connected and get out there!
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2 Responses to “Almost Everyone Needs a Networking Tune-up: So, Here You Go”
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The only thing I would add is to tailor these ideas to your personality and career.
Some people simply have personalities that are not conducive to networking as it is commonly known. If you aren’t an extrovert, you can network, just don’t go overboard and try to be the ‘life of the party’. You will come off as fake. An interesting blog post on this subject is here: http://davidmaister.com/blog/275/What-If-Youre-Not-That-Interested-in-People
Also, some careers don’t require as much networking as others. I see that Kristina is in public relations, which is a people-intensive field. If you are in a technical field, your networking requirements are reduced (but NOT eliminated) because technical skills matter more. You still need to know people, just don’t be discouraged if you aren’t a social butterfly.
Scott,
you are absolutely right about needing to tailor your needs based on the career path you choose.
I am in a people-centric occupation which is tough because I am an introvert by nature. I was once asked how I thought I could ever be sucessful in PR if I was such a shy person. I am happy to say that with the right attitude, you can overcocme it at least when you need to.
I have learned to “turn it on” when the situation requires it and I can still hang out in my office or curl up on the couch at home when the world gets a little overwhelming. I stay true to myself while still performing at an optimum level at work. No fake-ness required
I am very happy doing what I do though, because I get to help a lot of people by providing much needed education to the public. (I work for a not-for-profit.)
Thanks for the comment and for helping to clarify the message for all those not in such social lines of work.