🌙 TBD 023: Building a professional network
Good people know good people
Years passed when I didn’t think much about professional networks or even log into LinkedIn. After all, keeping up with the day-to-day work was more than enough.
When you have a great job, you aren’t thinking much about your next move.
However, regularly maintaining a professional network can’t be undervalued - and the time to build that network is when you don’t need it. Building a network takes some investment and time before it pays off.
When I talk to clients about building a network, I can see panic in their eyes. They make the assumption that they need to meet and connect with ALL NEW people. They feel they need to build a personal brand or do something big in their professional space.
That’s not true, start where you are. Start with who you know - or have known. A fewer more quality connections are better than folks you don’t actually know or enjoy working with.
Today I’ll cover some quick basics about getting your networking game back on.
So, set up time each week to reach out to your network. Just 30 minutes or less.
Let me break down a few simple ways to reach out:
1. If you’re starting from Zero:
As a human living on the planet, you're already connected to a bunch of people that can and want to help you. I promise. There’s potential in the folks you already know.
If you really feel you’re starting from scratch, spend time thinking of folks you used to work with, friends you went to school with or did a training with, early managers and start with reaching out to 3 - 5 folks.
2. The Touchbase:
It might feel awkward to touch base with no reason or when you haven’t been in touch for years, but it gets easier once you have a warm network. Keep it short, beneficial and sincere.
Touchbase is just connecting and saying “hello” to stay in touch. You don't have to be forever pen pals, but its nice to stay relevant.
“Hey, I just heard this podcast over the weekend and thought of you. The author talked about how there’s such a big exodus of people from their jobs. Which is funny because I get it. I’ve been thinking about making a switch soon. How are you doing? Hope all is well and let’s talk soon [or make a specific ask to connect].…”
“Wow, it's really been 10 years? You popped into my mind because I'm working with a new client that reminded me of our project together. How have you been? I’d love to catch up because I’m hiring some team members and recruiting has stalled. Maybe you know some one who’s looking for an entry level role? I can drop the job description your way."
3. The Question:
People like to help and solve problems, so the more specific your problem or question, the better off you’ll be in moving forward on that problem. Be direct and also show some evidence that you’ve done a little homework.
“How are you? I realize it’s been a long time since we’ve connected. I was wondering if I could ask a question about Product Design?
Interviewing has changed since I've been out there last. Would you be up for a 30 minute chat? I’m not familiar with some of the terms the recruiter is using. Any chance you know what XFN means? I appreciate it. I’d love to get your tips and insight."
4. The Favor:
Make an offer in exchange - even something like forwarding an article you enjoyed of offering to make an introduction can help you close the exchange loop.
Ask, “Hey friend! I’m exploring new roles in AI space. I’m looking at roles as X, Y, Z. Do you know someone who may be good for me to talk to to understand more about this space? I’d appreciate it. ”
“Is there someone you know that you’d be willing to connect with that might know more about UX Design that might be willing to help?”
Next week I’ll talk about a few ways to create your own networking group in a way that’s easy and fun.
Here are a few quick steps to get started.
Update your LInkedIn
It doesn’t have to be perfect but get the general facts straight
Take a look at similar profiles for ideas about language or formatting
Make it easy with small steps.
Start with people you LIKE or authentically feel connected to
Set a quick regular effort of 20 min a week
Investigate professional networks
Commit to attending ONE meeting that sounds interesting
Keep exploring until you find the right size, right fit
Be clear and reciprocate
Make your ask very clear ask - what? when? how?
Also make an offer of what you can - a podcast recommendation, an introduction, or something else that you can share sincerely
Not everyone responds to your outreach
And that’s okay!
PS!
Interesting article about networking from HBR here
I’m a huge Kelly Corrigan fan and her podcast does not disappoint