How to Use Networking to Get Ahead

Networking is a crucial aspect of any flourishing career. Either you're finding for a new job or want to shine in your current position, few things are as leading as making and maintaining contacts. Some people are put off by the term "networking," but it's simply a matter of making conversation with people. There are two steps to flourishing networking: finding people with whom to mingle and then using that time to your advantage.

Finding a Networking Group

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· Networking-only groups. There are active pro networking associations in every city, and they're remarkably easy to find. Your local chamber of commerce is one of them, and chambers usually have networking events at least once a month. If you're a professional, you probably hear about these groups at work all the time but may have dismissed them as a waste of your time or, even worse, intimidating. But these groups are a solid jumping off point for you to create your network of associates.

· Targeted networking groups. If you're a woman or minority, there may be a firm networking group in your area whose sole purpose is to promote your interests. Women's pro organizations and groups based on ethnic or religious commonalities are set up specifically to help members showcase their companies and encourage company to use each others' services when possible.

· A local or regional business-to-business magazine. Most of them are remarkably well done and are not only full of helpful firm tips, but also fullness of advertisements for networking opportunities. A subscription is well worth the price and may even be a tax write-off.

· Online sources. Today, most people guide at least a measure of their firm online. And for some professionals, a majority of their firm comes from online sources. Many people cultivate their own online public network, but there are also sites such as LinkedIn set up exclusively to facilitate online networking.

· The public scene. everywhere you go is a networking opportunity. In public situations, one of the first questions people are asked is, "So, how's the job going?" And most people say "fine" and leave it at that. But this is a excellent occasion to network. You can slip in a little plug for yourself or your firm ("We were just named the best firm in the city to work for!") and then follow it up with food for idea ("It's in fact rewarding to help people get their finances in order. My clients are just quarterly people like you and me, but they're all starting to amass wealth now."). You don't want this to become so unavoidable that people start to avoid you for fear that you'll try to hard-sell them every time they see you. But used judiciously, networking in public settings can lead to new opportunities and increased firm for you.

Networking For Success

· Leave your anxiety at the door. reliance is indispensable in networking because people can't tell what you're nervous about-the situation at hand or your products and services. Either way, unavoidable nervousness isn't attractive. Keep reminding yourself what a great assistance you're doing for others by introducing them to your company.

· Be specific. Especially when networking with people you don't know, it's best to be clear in your intent. Too many people are vague about their firm and their goals because they don't want to come off as rude or aggressive. But it's impossible for a palpate to help you if he doesn't know what you're after. Do you want data about a company? An introduction to his associate? To be kept in mind for a job opening? Just say it!

· Keep in touch. If you only talk to or correspond with people when you need something, your contacts will disregard your attempts. Be sure to keep track of leading dates (such as birthdays), and get in touch then. Or set up a lunch meeting once in a while with nothing on your agenda except saying hi.

· It's a two-way street. One of the most coarse mistakes people make in networking is forgetting that you have to scratch other people's backs if you want them to scratch yours. The best relationships are ongoing ones, and if you take without giving, you'll soon find yourself without contacts. in fact pay attentiveness to what people are saying about their own firm and, when possible, give their services a try. You can bet they'll remember and use your company's services as well.

How to Use Networking to Get Ahead