No matter what you believe, I am telling you it is about who you know, not what you know.
Networking is such a vital part of the job search in today's world. If you do not know how to network or have made no attempt to create connections within the community or work force, you will have an awful time trying to find an opportunity over others.
Networking means many different things- some of which I will list. There is so much importance in growing your connections, sharing your story, your business or talents. How will anyone ever know what you are capable of if you do not ever share those qualities with others?
Reasons to Network:
1. You get to make connections that will be spread country wide.
The simple connections that you make today with your classmates, professors or community members can reach country wide. Everyone moves in separate directions at some point; Imagine interviewing for a cooperate position in a new state, and your old college classmate happens to be conducting the search process. You will more than likely have a better chance at getting a second interview, or even the job, because now someone on the inside knows you as a person and your work and ethic style. They know you would be a good fit, and if you would not be a good fit, where at that time they could suggest a different position for you.
2. It gives access to resources.
If you Network you have an easily accessible space to share your talents, accomplishments and plans in. And not only share them, you can make connections with people who can give insightful advice or even assist with pieces you are lacking in your game plan. It gives you a large amount of resources that you can have ready, by simply talking and creating connections with others.
3. Networking gives you the chance to shape into that professional you have always dreamed of.
Networking can be a fun and easy going way to pick up on professional insights, learn how to communicate effectively with others and how to adapt to new situations. I think that "networking" to a variety of people means that you have to wear a suit and tie and sit in a boring conference hall with others dreading the same situation. But, that is not the case, and hardly ever is! If you ask around or search you will be surprised at how many networking events are most likely scheduled downtown, in the local brewery, at the new apartment complex opening up, or at the new office building located downtown. There are so many relaxed networking events, just to get you started in the community.
I definitely recommend networking. Start small, visit that networking event located at the new apartment complex opening up, or make a stop by that new informational meeting for that school affiliated club. Or, simply stop by your professors office and talk to them! Let them know you want to stop by and just simply ask how their day is. Talk about interest and hobbies. Future plans or ideas. You will be surprised how grateful you will be down road when that colleague, professor, or community member suggest your name for job openings, or internship opportunities.
For an example- to prove how well networking works, my Dad is the top supervisor for a company in Austin Texas. They build the tallest skyscrapers Austin has. And guess how many years my Dad spent in college to earn that job? None. Guess how many interviews he had to go through to get that job and find that job? Hardly any. He is well known, his work ethic and knowledge is well known. He was requested because of his years of construction experience, but also because of his person-ability skills. My Dad is so personable, he can talk to anyone. And I feel like he knows everyone. And that is because his connections and his network reached across states. He got the job over college graduates and Austin locals because he worked his network and took his experience farther and farther each day.
Networking is simply a way to show who you are, improve on that, and make connections that will eventually help push you forward in life. Do not take the power of connections lightly, after all, it is who you know, not what you know.
