Networking tips for young professionals

Dear Ambitious Young Professional,

That is a great question - the value of professional networking cannot be overstated. Although almost everyone is on social networks these days, there is a big difference between setting up an online profile and knowing how to network effectively.

The first thing we recommend is that you cast a wide net. Your school alumni is a good place to start, but it may not be enough. I always suggest that people join at least three networks – one from their own profession (legal, IT, HR, etc), one that mixes different vocations together such as chambers of commerce, and finally, an NGO such as Rotary or AFETT.

Let’s look at the benefits of each:

PROFESSIONAL NETWORKS: This is where professionals in your discipline will share trends, project ideas and discuss industry challenges. You will meet potential mentors and hear from professionals who are in positions that you hope to move into in the future.
You can also build a reputation as a thought leader, sharing expert opinions and experiences.

MIXED VOCATIONS : Networks such as Chambers of Commerce give you an insight into diverse issues. It is always useful to hear from professionals outside your discipline, as they will have experiences different from your own.

NGOs: Volunteering is a marvellous way to build a network of like-minded, caring individuals. Pick a cause you are passionate about, and then dive in. Volunteers build new skills and knowledge, boost career prospects, enjoy a sense of fulfilment and achievement, and enjoy enhanced selfesteem.

The key for success in established networks is to not just sign up for membership, but join the Board and become the president. No-one will know how great you are if you are always sitting at the back of the room.

Say Yes: In a column penned for the Harvard Business Review, Kathryn Minshew, CEO and co-founder of The Muse, advised young professionals to “Network Your Face Off” (figuratively speaking). That means saying yes to as many networking opportunities as possible. Whether it is a conference held by the Chamber or a cocktail gathering at your local Rotary club.
Every networking opportunity is one not to be missed. The only networking event that is a waste of time is the one not taken.

Be Prepared: You should have a pitch prepared for networking. Some things to consider including are: who you are, what your business is/what you do, and why that person should care. Your pitch can change depending on the event and who you’re talking to, but you should always be ready and prepared to articulate exactly what you do.

Additionally do some research so you have an idea of who may be attending, and their interests and background. This makes introductions so much easier.

Set Goals: Networking is daunting.

For each event, you should set a small and achievable goal, such as “I will talk to at least 1 new person” or “I will ask Mr. Big for advice about my new service”.

Don’t be Afraid: Even if you don’t know anyone, don’t stand at the back of the room feeling sorry for yourself.

Put your phone away and walk up to someone that looks friendly. Everyone has been in the same situation at one time or another, so they should want to help you feel comfortable.

Do Not Sell: Networking events are for sharing ideas and information and NOT an opportunity for you to sell your products and services.

Give to Get: The basic principle of networking is that you get back what you give. So hand out ideas, share advice, offer support ... rather than asking for these things. Over time, this technique will rebound to your benefit.

Once you have started networking, you have to be proactive. You’ve handed out your hundreds of business cards, attended dozens of networking events and touched base with every contact you could think of. Now you can sit back and wait for the calls to start rolling in, right? Wrong. The only way you can be sure opportunity knocks is to go calling. Instead of waiting for the phone to ring, you should call new contacts (without pestering) them, as a follow up and request for further action.

To be an effective networker it is important to be polished: That snazzy new jacket may help cement the right first impression at your next networking event or interview, but being polished extends far beyond your wardrobe. It means proofreading every email you send, being polite even three hours into a painfully boring conference and not drinking too much at that business mixer. It also means not making bad decisions on social media.

Building an effective network takes times time and effort. But it is totally worth it. I can attest to that.

AFETT is a not-for-profit organisation formed in 2002 with the goal of bringing together professional women and engaging in networking opportunities, professional training and business ideas. ASK AFETT is a column meant to address issues and concerns of professionals seeking advice to assist in progressing in their careers.

Today’s response was written by AFETT member, Lara Quentrall-Thomas, founder and first president of AFETT, and chairman of Regency Recruitment & Resources Ltd – www.regencytrinidad.com . Learn more about AFETT at www.afett.com, search for AFETT Events on Facebook, follow us @ AFETTEXECS on Twitter or contact us at 354-7130. Email us your career-related questions at admin.afett@gmail.com.

SOURCES: http://www.careerbuilder.com/ advice/7-networking-tips-for-youngprofessionals https://www.linkedin.com/ pulse/20140914205239-190598742- 5-networking-tips-for-young-businessowners