Every month on a Monday, the Caulfield Women’s Networking and Support Group meets at lunch to hear guest speakers, workshop and network.
Networking can be a very powerful career tool. Since most jobs are not advertised, it is very important you have friendly people in your circle that can inform you of upcoming job openings. Networking is actually a strategy for revealing the hidden job market. The old saying, ‘It’s not what you know, but who you know,’ is absolutely true.
Networking should be deliberate. Networking is ongoing. Networking needs to be regularly re-evaluated. A good network has a mix of both formal and informal connections. Formal connections are made through joining groups such as the Caulfield Women’s Networking and Support group; informal connections are made at social events and though old friends and colleagues.
Five ideas to help you build your network:
1. Plan how you will build your network.
Research and make a list of all of the different networking organisations you want to be involved with in your area of interest and make some goals.
2. Make contact with people you already know.
Make a list of people you want to have in your network and contact people you already know via phone, email or face-to-face meeting.
3. Organise your networking plan
Put all of your contact details for people in your circle either in a spreadsheet, alphabetised cards or multiple-rolodex system. Review your network at least once a year but don’t throw away old contacts. They may still come in handy.
4. Take action.
Design a timetable for your networking and stick to it. Make notes to record whom you met with and what the outcome was so you don’t forget what happened in the meeting. Get your business card printing done so you can leave your details with people you meet. Set time aside every week for networking.
5. Observe Networking Etiquette.
Key things to remember are:
• Always ask before you use someone’s name as a referral to another person
• Call people at convenient times of the day
• Follow through on your promises
• Thank everyone who helps you.
Finally remember the golden rule of networking, ‘it never hurts to ask.’
If you are interested in the Women’s Networking and Support Group, contact Helen Dunne at Helen.Dunne@adm.monash.edu.au.
