3 Keys to Successful Networking

Recently we’ve met with a number of candidates who are recently out of work. Victims of a corporate restructuring, they now find themselves on the street looking for a new sales job. When we asked them who they have been networking with the response was the same, “I’m just starting to do that”.  The biggest mistake most people (not just sales people) make is waiting until they are out of a job before they begin to network.

Networking is very similar to selling in that it is a process not an event. It’s about building lasting relationships with people who can help you at some point in the future.  Sales people in general tend to focus on hitting their quarterly targets or making the next sale rather than spending time with someone who can’t help them right away.  This is dangerous. By following a few simple rules, you will be well on your way to building a valuable network of contacts.

1. Always be networking. Meeting new people may lead to new business, new friends or a new job.
2. It’s not just about you.  Be genuine and network because you want to help others as well and the more you help others, the more you’ll get in return.
3. Make time for networking. Set aside 1 hour a week to meet someone, attend an event, meet with a recruiter or reconnect with someone you’ve lost touch with. If you do, you’ll meet at least 52 new people a year who are in a position to help you and vice versa.

According to some studies, networking is 7 times more likely to bring in new business than all other forms of advertizing and marketing combined. If you do find yourself without a job, a well established network will have a much greater chance of landing your next role.