Networking

Networking helps you to utilise the richest source of information and assistance in the working world: whom you know.

There is some common basic misunderstanding about how networking works.

Ø      It isn't that someone is going to get you a job or contract.

Ø      It isn't about someone with influence who is going to pull a few strings to get you what you want.

Ø      It isn't about exerting pressure and forcing someone to meet you and help you.

Networking is like a big cocktail party. While you're sipping your drink, you scan the room to see who's there and who might be interesting to talk with. While you're discussing your job with a friend, she mentions that the gentleman across the room works in your field. She walks you over and makes the introduction. As she turns to talk to someone else, you and your new acquaintance are left alone to develop a relationship and exchange information. Most networking is no different. Your friends and acquaintances make introductions but the rest is up to you.

Most business people don't mind networking. In fact, they welcome it. They want to meet people in their industry and are always on the lookout for people with whom they can swap information. But they do expect “networkers” to follow the unspoken rules of protocol:

Ø      Be courteous with their time. When you call, ask if they have a minute to talk. When you are meeting, and had previously asked for twenty minutes, stick to it, unless they extend the time.

Ø      Be specific about what you want from them and don't expect them to do your homework for you. For example, if someone contacted you and said, "I'd like to change careers, can you help me?" you'd probably hesitate because it sounds like they need a lot of time. But if the person said she had two specific questions, you would probably be more willing to agree to meet.

Ø       Write down their advice and the names and numbers of the people they mention. Then be sure to follow up and tell them how their advice was used; what worked and what didn't.

Ø      Write a thank you note.  

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" We are committed to help people to come in a dynamic relationship with God, because then they will be at peace with themselves and they will be able to work at their relationships with others."
Wynand & Barbara Louw, Founders of ITN.

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Barbara Louw CEO for ITN.

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