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A year and half ago when I came to college I didn't know anybody on a professional level. Now I’m building a professional network; relationships with people who I would go the extra mile for (and hopefully they would do the same for me). Most college students who want to start networking don’t know where to begin, but it’s not rocket science. On the most basic level it’s easy; you just have to be willing to put effort into the small things.
With recruiters or just meeting someone new, the simplest way to stay connected is the follow-up email. This seems way too simple, right? Maybe that’s why nobody seems to do it. I try to follow up after meeting with someone, whether it’s the first time or the 100th. Immediately. Every time. The key is keeping it simple.
1) Say thank you, you’ll never go wrong. If someone went out of their way for you, send a handwritten note as well as the email. It doesn’t take that long and it shows that you understand that his/her time is valuable. This is a powerful message to send, especially since Millennials get a bad rap for acting entitled. Set yourself apart from the stereotype
2) It’s not about you. You have to make it about the other person. Obviously if you’re looking for an internship or job, those are priorities when you’re networking, but don’t be that person who continually asks for favors. Build the relationship and find ways YOU can do something for him/her. The tables will turn some day, you just have to have faith!
3) Consistency and persistence are key. I send my thank you immediately. Every time. It might feel ridiculous sending a follow up every time you meet someone, but people notice and they appreciate it. Keep it clear and concise. Messages don’t have to be long or drawn out, just thoughtful.
At the end of the day, it boils down to common courtesy. If you shoot an email to someone after you meet it will speak volumes about your initiative. And it literally took five minutes.
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Comments
02.27.09
Nicole,
I agree with the sentiment here, and these may be great tips for those relatively new at networking, but the feel a bit 'too common sense for me.'
That isn't to discredit this piece, because I think it will resonate with lots of people, but I would challenge you to extrapolate some of the real value here, which to me is:
> "send a handwritten note as well as the email" --> I've had great success with handwritten notes.
> "Messages don’t have to be long or drawn out, just thoughtful." --> You did emphasize this, and I think it's a great point. So many people in a desire to impress write long e-mails, that people will "read later" and then never do. The short thank you is the best approach.
Looking foward to more of your stuff Nicole!
02.27.09
I agree, these are the absolute basics. Some students, especially those into blogging, probably do these things. For those who don't though, you have to get down the basics before you try to do more! Thanks for the helpful comments!
02.27.09
Can't wait to tweet this on @careerealism Nicole!
I teach a course on college campuses regularly and in it I discuss the importance of saying 'thank you' - yet, some of the students still manage to ignore it. They call or e-mail me in a panic needing immediate career help, only to never even follow up with a thank you or progress report after.
I feel like I have more patience than most professionals, so I can only imagine the bridges these folks burn from a networking-perspective.
Thanks for reinforcing the use of appreciation as a way to stand out - not only is it easy and FREE, it's the best way to make a great, lasting impression.
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