In Gambia, many people have agreed that it’s all about who you know thats gives you job. If this is the case, then it is good that you connect and know the people that matters. And one way of doing that is networking. Networking with the right people in your industry can open doors for you and help your career flourish. Consider this your guide to networking.
What can networking do for me?
For starters, networking helps you acquire contacts, information and helpful advice surrounding your industry, which is exactly what you need to do when job searching.
If you’re quite shy, start small; make a list of everyone you know; family, friends, neighbours, classmates and anyone else you can think of – the more contacts you have, the more information you’ll gain. Try to stick to people who are in some way connected to your chosen career field – that way you’ll always be kept in the loop about job openings, if you play your cards right.
I have the contacts, now what?
Before making contact with them, prepare yourself. Know what to tell them about yourself and also what you’d like to ask them. Start with who you are. Tell them about your education, achievements, industry experience, special skills – important information that will sell you. Then figure out what you’d like to ask your contacts.
Here are a few questions you can ask your contacts:
1. Are there or do you know of any openings at your company that would be suited to me?
2. Have you heard of anyone who might be interested in hiring someone with my skills or background?
3. Do you know of anyone else who might know of job vacancies that I can contact?
The last thing you want to do though is sound like a robot asking questions from a page. Prepare your script and make sure you sound as natural as possible. Keep it short, but also make sure you interact with your contact. You want to build a lasting, pleasant relationship so that they’ll keep you in mind should anything pop up.
Follow up
After speaking to a contact about job leads, follow up with a thank you email or phone call. People like that you appreciate their help. Don’t become a nag though, there’s a limit to the amount of follow ups you should do. That said; don’t ever give up on job search.
7 Top networking tips
1. Make professional business cards and always carry them with you
2. Know how to deliver a winning handshake
3. Dress for success
4. Don’t be stiff – laugh, connect, chat
5. Help others
6. Listen attentively. Nothing less than your undivided attention
7. Be respectful, punctual, courteous and positive