I remember back to my first couple of years in college and everyone telling me the only way I will get a job is by networking and knowing the right people. Well, maybe for a few people it helps but it is not the case for everyone. I got shot down from several companies where I knew someone, even with the great references from my networks. You need to pick a company that you are interested in and where you will be happy, not by whom you know. You have to get your own job with your own skills!
My business school has a required careers course and the statistic they quote is that 70% of “upper level” positions are sourced through networking or at least helped along by it.
I think you’re right – if you’re behind in the times, it’s near impossible to start now and get the results you’re looking for. Networking, in my opinion, is an ongoing effort so start early and network often for best results.
Networking isn’t always about getting the job now. It’s planting the seed for that “small world huh?” moment where you know someone who knows someone and you form that triangle network. Just like in the blogosphere, eventually, everyone knows everyone.
This is a very good post. You often read about how networking is crucial for finding a job and yet very rarely do people point out that a network doesn’t just appear in the throes of a job search. Well done!
Hi, as much as I agree with your post I disagree as well. I agree that networking is like planting a seed but that does not mean that you have to wait till it grows. Its best to ask someone for help when you make your first impression because (cliche’) “First impression is the last one” and if you believe that person can help, just ask for it. The worst answer you could get is a “No”.
Zohaib, I think the reason you gave (“First impression is the last one”) is the best evidence for not asking for help right away. If you’re trying to make a good impression on someone asking for help right away might come across as you’re using them just to get what you want. I agree the worst answer you could get is “No” but I also think you can do some damage in that the person will not want to further develop a relationship with you.
Monica – I see my blog already “pinged” your blog with my reply post! Thanks again for starting the conversation about networking and timing. I look forward to future opportunities to “converse” on career related issues!
Miriam Salpeter
Keppie Careers
You make a great point that more young people should pay attention to… anybody in the sort of position which would attract recent-graduates seeking to build their network can see right through false sincerity and those genuinely interested in making a close, personal connection… namely, the latter (and much more successful group) had made the connection long before May of their graduating year.
As a recent high-school graduate, I can attest to the power of constantly attempting to build a network, however, but through an attitude of “What can I do for you?” Ferrazzi and Boothman both focus on this in their books, but it works. And if you are in a pinch and really need an post-graduate work or a summer job, that is truly the best (and most effective) method of approaching the newer members of one’s ‘network.’
Miriam, thanks for the ping, and the comment. I do understand your point now about weak ties. I also agree with you that networking is a good thing to do all the time… I am speaking more to the audience who thinks they can rely on their weak connections and get a job in a pinch because they know someone who knows a CEO, or they went to school at the same places as an executive at a Big 4 firm. I think in most cases, a network must still be in place to get a job, and people who get interviews from meeting someone during their job hunt are probably charismatic and talented individuals.
Glenn, I’m impressed that you have learned that lesson during high school. It’s probably the golden rule of networking – figure out how you can help others, build up your brownie points, and save your own needs for a rainy day when you actually need something. It’s so much easier to ask when you already know the answer will be “yes.”
You’ve got a point here; it’s usually deep, established connections that yield the best results. These people actually know your interests and talents, and will be much more likely to connect you with opportunities you’ll qualify for and excel at. A new connection may get your foot in the door somewhere, but the chances of it being the right fit for you are slim.
I was recently told by the human resource department of the university I graduated from that “if a person wishes to work in the school’s admissions department they must (by federal law) have an applicable degree. (any general business degree)
I tried to research this new law but found nothing. What do you think? Ever hear of this law before? Thanks for helping!
Monica O'Brien is the Director of Digital at Fizz and author of the book Social Pollination, which helps businesses leverage social media for crazy growth!
"There's no sugar coating in Monica's advice. She understands and outlines what works and doesn't, while she also leaves room to discuss the transient nature of social media."
Grace Boyle, Publisher Services Manager at Lijit
Monica O'Brien is the Director of Digital at Fizz and author of the book Social Pollination, which helps businesses leverage social media for crazy growth!
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I remember back to my first couple of years in college and everyone telling me the only way I will get a job is by networking and knowing the right people. Well, maybe for a few people it helps but it is not the case for everyone. I got shot down from several companies where I knew someone, even with the great references from my networks. You need to pick a company that you are interested in and where you will be happy, not by whom you know. You have to get your own job with your own skills!
My business school has a required careers course and the statistic they quote is that 70% of “upper level” positions are sourced through networking or at least helped along by it.
I think you’re right – if you’re behind in the times, it’s near impossible to start now and get the results you’re looking for. Networking, in my opinion, is an ongoing effort so start early and network often for best results.
Rinse and repeat as necessary.
Networking isn’t always about getting the job now. It’s planting the seed for that “small world huh?” moment where you know someone who knows someone and you form that triangle network. Just like in the blogosphere, eventually, everyone knows everyone.
This is a very good post. You often read about how networking is crucial for finding a job and yet very rarely do people point out that a network doesn’t just appear in the throes of a job search. Well done!
Hi, thanks for the comments. I’m glad a few people agree, because most people at Brazen Careerist disagreed.
Daniel, I think network is important at all times. But I think if you need a job now, it’s probably not the most important thing to build a network.
Hi, as much as I agree with your post I disagree as well. I agree that networking is like planting a seed but that does not mean that you have to wait till it grows. Its best to ask someone for help when you make your first impression because (cliche’) “First impression is the last one” and if you believe that person can help, just ask for it. The worst answer you could get is a “No”.
The analogy of networking to a 401K is rock solid! It takes times!!!
Zohaib, I think the reason you gave (“First impression is the last one”) is the best evidence for not asking for help right away. If you’re trying to make a good impression on someone asking for help right away might come across as you’re using them just to get what you want. I agree the worst answer you could get is “No” but I also think you can do some damage in that the person will not want to further develop a relationship with you.
Mike, thanks! I’m glad the analogy made sense.
Monica – I see my blog already “pinged” your blog with my reply post! Thanks again for starting the conversation about networking and timing. I look forward to future opportunities to “converse” on career related issues!
Miriam Salpeter
Keppie Careers
Monica,
You make a great point that more young people should pay attention to… anybody in the sort of position which would attract recent-graduates seeking to build their network can see right through false sincerity and those genuinely interested in making a close, personal connection… namely, the latter (and much more successful group) had made the connection long before May of their graduating year.
As a recent high-school graduate, I can attest to the power of constantly attempting to build a network, however, but through an attitude of “What can I do for you?” Ferrazzi and Boothman both focus on this in their books, but it works. And if you are in a pinch and really need an post-graduate work or a summer job, that is truly the best (and most effective) method of approaching the newer members of one’s ‘network.’
Miriam, thanks for the ping, and the comment. I do understand your point now about weak ties. I also agree with you that networking is a good thing to do all the time… I am speaking more to the audience who thinks they can rely on their weak connections and get a job in a pinch because they know someone who knows a CEO, or they went to school at the same places as an executive at a Big 4 firm. I think in most cases, a network must still be in place to get a job, and people who get interviews from meeting someone during their job hunt are probably charismatic and talented individuals.
Glenn, I’m impressed that you have learned that lesson during high school. It’s probably the golden rule of networking – figure out how you can help others, build up your brownie points, and save your own needs for a rainy day when you actually need something. It’s so much easier to ask when you already know the answer will be “yes.”
You’ve got a point here; it’s usually deep, established connections that yield the best results. These people actually know your interests and talents, and will be much more likely to connect you with opportunities you’ll qualify for and excel at. A new connection may get your foot in the door somewhere, but the chances of it being the right fit for you are slim.
Hey Monica
hope all is well. I have a question for you.
I was recently told by the human resource department of the university I graduated from that “if a person wishes to work in the school’s admissions department they must (by federal law) have an applicable degree. (any general business degree)
I tried to research this new law but found nothing. What do you think? Ever hear of this law before? Thanks for helping!
- Miguel
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