Whenever McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski is asked for career advice, he immediately talks about the value of networking.
Always, his first tip is that he wants you to build up your personal and professional network. Especially when you don’t need it. Dig the well before you are thirsty.
Secondly, Kempczinski says on LinkedIn that genuine friendships elevate the value of your network. He adds that it’s important to avoid merely shallow, strictly transactional relationships.
Someone you know well will likely go beyond saying that, yes, I know you. Far better, they’ll actually advocate on your behalf when you need them to. They’ll become great references and door openers.
Third, Kempczinski encourages job seekers of any age to be open to meeting people you don’t know. As he says, you may learn the value (or not) of that conversation afterward, but you’ll never know unless you have it.
Building authentic relationships is the cornerstone of effective networking.
By being genuine, listening actively, offering value, following up consistently, participating actively, leveraging social media, and being patient and persistent, you can establish a strong professional network that will support your career growth.
Let me share two examples that proved to be very effective.
She decided she needed a change
A friend of mine who worked for a local nonprofit was ready for a change, even though she could have stayed there for a long time because she loved working for nonprofits and helping people.
To kick off her job search, she invited six close friends, all of whom worked for San Diego-based nonprofits, to gather for an informal dinner, during which she brought up that she was looking for something new and different.
By the time dessert was served, there was a vibrant conversation that fed off itself. She was made aware of six openings in the local nonprofit sector that would be of interest to her.
Networking at its best, and a fun evening because she’s a great cook.
The other example involved an HR contact at one of our clients. She told me it was time for her to take a break and enjoy a little “me time.”
She knew she would eventually return to the job market, but she wasn’t sure about what she wanted to do or where she’d like to work.
For starters, she made a list of 30 people she had worked with, for, or managed that she respected, and would like to work with again. Then she sent an email to each of them, explaining her plans and hoping to catch up.
Ready to jump back in the job market
Her message was respectful and straight-forward: “I’m now ready to jump back in the job market. I’ve respected and enjoyed working with you over these years and trust your judgment.
“Do you know of any open positions, announced or not, that you think might be appropriate for me and that I should research?”
Nearly everyone answered her, with responses ranging from “Sure, I’d be happy to keep my eyes and ears open for any opportunities,” to “You know what? We’re hiring now and I’d love to recommend you. Let’s talk.”
The result was six great leads that led directly to three interviews within the week.
The people these women were talking to already knew their talents and capabilities. They happily jumped at the opportunity to help their friend.
Go ahead, meet with people you don’t know, but who are of interest, for any reason. Even if you’re not actively looking for a new job, get involved with groups and associations and attend conferences. Keep yourself visible.
Consider these contacts as your personal advisory board.
As you search for job openings be comfortable to email on a regular basis. Keep them updated so they’ll keep you in mind. Never hesitate to ask, “Do you know anyone at ABC company?”
If someone in a company recommends you for a job, you have seven times the chance of getting that job. Also, remember to help people you meet who are also searching.
Pay it forward, and it will pay you back.
Blair is co-founder of Manpower Staffing and can be reached at pblair@manpowersd.com.
