Networking

Networking...what does this word mean? Well, about 8 months ago, I had no idea what networking was and how it could have such a great impact on making the adjustment into the "Real World" so much easier. I know that I have mentioned my summer in NYC a lot in my past few blogs, but last summer is my whole reason that I'm excited about getting a job and I did really learn a lot, I mean that is why my parents sent me there in the first place...(I just have to post one more picture of the best city, this time of the Manhattan skyline taken from a sunset cruise around the city's harbor). So back to networking, about 8 months ago, in a seminar held by Andrew Hewitt and Luc d'Abadie, the authors of The Power of Focus for College Students, I learned that not only who you know but who knows you is a large factor in where and how far you can go in the working world. It is an especially good way to get started.

According to Cheryl Ferguson, Networking in the 21st Century "is more than just a buzzword. It's probably the best opportunity you will ever have to make connections, build relationships and help yourself and others in the networking group succeed." It "is also a great way to explore new career options, learn more about a specific industry, gather insights from peers on critical business issues and grow professionally.

She first says that you need to begin networking with a goal in mind. By thinking about what you want to accomplish, whether it's looking for a job, trying to develop new business or becoming like the go-to person in your industry or the industry you would like to become a part of, is what should be going through your mind as you begin to find contacts to network with.

The way to obtain networking contacts is easy. If you see a keynote speaker, get their email address, ask if you can contact them and discuss future job plans or if they are able to give you advice, search for contacts on the internet and send them an email, ask advisors and teachers in your major for different people that you may be able to contact, and even ask friends, you never who they might know.

Cheryl says to make sure that when making a new networking contact, just to listen and see what they have to say. By using this technique, she says that it "helps you gain insight as to how that contact can help you, making the connection stronger. It's not about collecting the most business cards; it's about collecting the right ones."

She also adds, that "if you're networking correctly, you'll find you have more visibility, greater knowledge, and a wider circle of reliable contacts; and that you can leverage those assets to further your career."

People that I began my networking with was my boss at BlackBook Magazine, a former dreamer, turned staff member, now starting her own editing firm in Manhattan, and my placement agent through the program. See, very easy.

If you would like to read more about Cheryl Ferguson and her networking techniques, visit: Cheryl's Tips.