Networking Is a Dirty Word
The word networking has a bad reputation, and I think most of us can understand why. If you’ve attended more than a dozen networking events, you’ve probably experienced what I call the “on-site seller.”
Picture this…
You walk into a swanky new downtown restaurant with the hopes of making meaningful connections. You sign in, receive your name tag, and make a beeline to the bar to grab a personality cocktail before interacting with the crowd. You’re now at the bar awkwardly trying to get the bartender’s attention as someone to your left swoops in beside you. You welcome the conversation and say your hellos. The bartender comes up and you order a Manhattan (it’s been a hard day and it’s $2 off).
You then continue the conversation with your new friend and within a matter of minutes you realize you’ve just received a business card followed by a sales pitch for something you don’t need or want and now you can’t escape.
Sound familiar? Don’t be that person.
I get it – you came to the event with the intention of closing business, but that’s not how this works. That’s not how any of this works.
Here are a few tips that will help make the word “networking” great again.
- Get to know the people in the room. The saying, “people do business with who they like, know and trust” is a no brainer. People are more likely to do business or offer up their own personal connections with people they are familiar with. You can’t meet someone one time for 10 minutes and expect to have a deep relationship. By attending multiple events within the same organization, you will get to know the people in the room and you’ll see a difference in your business connections because of it.
- Find common ground. Forget that you’re “selling” and come into a networking event with the intention of really connecting with others. Ask questions, practice active listening and enjoy the conversation. See what hobbies you have in common and discuss your passions outside of work. The interaction will feel much more organic and you may even end up scheduling a time to meet up at Raccoon State Park to explore that hiking trail you’ve heard all about.
- Network with meaning. If you wanted to, you could attend a networking event just about every day of the year. Don’t. Quantity does not mean quality. Spend 15 minutes a month mapping out your networking plan and network with purpose. Do your research; make sure the organizations and events you’re looking to attend will have the types of people in the industries you want to connect with. Then commit to two to four events a month. You’ll be glad you did.
- Network outside of events. I was recently at a kickball game. My teammate began talking about his friend’s band and after hearing about the Jack Johnson/hipster style duo, I asked if he could connect us. I was looking for that style of talent and was finding it hard to secure. I received the band’s contact information and booked them a day later. Believe it or not, that is networking.
Whether you’re at lunch with a friend or at an organized event, I hope these tips help you make the most of your experience. And remember, networking is not a dirty word.
Authored by Morgan Whiteley, PYP 2018 President
filed under: Resources
Tags: pittsburgh jobs, pittsburgh networking, young professional