Josette writes:
I’ve read many articles that networking is the most effective job-search tool.
I really want to change careers but I don’t know how to go about networking.
I’ve been stuck in low-end, low-paying jobs because I don’t know how to network.
I want to get out of the dead-end rut badly. Currently I’m a temporary
clerical worker.
I want to network badly, but it’s hard for me because I’m not a very outgoing person. Where do I start? What’s the best way for a person who’s not very outgoing to start a network?
The Career Doctor responds:
My partner, Katharine Hansen, is an introvert — which some people find strange when they discover she’s written a book on networking. Anyone can do networking. Is it easier for extraverts? Of course it is, but it’s not their exclusive domain.
(By the way, her book, A Foot in the Door: Networking Your Way into the Hidden Job Market, has an entire chapter on networking for the shy.)
Before I begin, let’s start with refocusing networking. Networking is simply about building relationships with other people. It’s about establishing rapport and building a mutually beneficial relationship.
So, let me offer you some tips — tips for all the shy job-seekers out there — on becoming better at networking.
First, start off networking in a comfortable setting with people you know. Perhaps a community or religious group. A professional group is another option, but since you say you’re stuck in a low-end job, I am guessing you may not currently be a member of a professional group.
Second, consider doing some networking via the written word. Email and postal notes to former colleagues, professors, and alumni are a great way to re-establish connections and build a network.
Third, when you know you are attending a networking event, prepare ahead of time. Use your strengths. Many introverts are great listeners, so stop worrying about dominating the conversation with witty stories and instead prepare a couple of questions. All an extravert needs is one question to keep the conversation going for a while! Ask questions such as, “what kind of work do you do?” or “what are some of the favorite parts of your job,” or “tell me more about your company.”
Fourth, work on your body language. Often introverts avoid eye contact and appear disinterested - so you should make sure you are sending the right non-verbal messages.
Fifth, set goals for yourself — small networking steps first — and then celebrate each goal you achieve.
Learn more in about networking techniques in the networking section of Quintessential Careers.
