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The Necessary Art of Networking and Professional Presence

In such tumultuous times with companies laying off employees in flocks and those employed are concerned about their job security, having many friends in influential places and cultivating acquaintance relationships can be a benefit. Networking is an important job-hunting tool that is surprisingly often overlooked. In order to gain a strategic advantage in the job market- whether you have a job, are looking for one or wish to advance in your career, networking is key. An opportunity can come from anywhere; hence it is important to put yourself out there. At this point you might be wondering, ‘where do I start?’ Before taking your networking journey, you must first establish and hone your professional presence. Professional presence is basically your personal brand, which includes dress, grooming, body language, and etiquette. Self-promotion begins with overcoming nervousness or insecurities. Be confident in yourself and your abilities and this behavior will reflect in both business and social situations.

Tip # 1: Do Research and Identify Your Goals for Networking
Once you have established your professional presence, you should identify your professional goals and see who you can align with. Ask yourself the following questions, “Why are you networking? At what stage are you in your career?” Your research and networking strategy will be dependent on whether you are employed or unemployed, and/or shifting careers or further establishing one. Once you identify clear goals, you can do focused research. Some suggestions on where to start: industry organization websites, industry news websites, and career websites.

Tip # 2: Pull From Your Own Network
As you are building your network, reach out to a few people that you already know, like, and trust, and who also work in professions related to or in yours. Try to meet these people in person to market yourself, and indicate your knowledge of your industry and goals. Make sure that the person is clear about your objectives so that time is well used. Depending on your objectives, you can use the time to learn more about the industry or a specific position, and market yourself. Be prepared. Your contact may know someone who knows someone looking to hire.

Tip # 3 Attend Some Industry or Networking Events
Getting out and meeting new people in your industry is the easiest way to build your network, particularly since your conversations will be focused. While at the event, be sure to be accessible, come early for the “social hour” prior to an event and spend time mingling after a corporate dinner. If you come to the event with someone make sure that you two aren’t joined at the hip the whole event. This is a great opportunity to learn about new practices in your industry and key players in your area. Remember to bring plenty of business cards to the event.

Tip # 4 Take Risks and Be Creative in Your Journey
Be creative and assertive not only about how you build your network, but about how your personal brand will leave an indelible mark in others’ minds. Naturally, the more accessible you make yourself, the greater your odds of building a large network and gaining new opportunities. With the advent of high technology, ubiquity is almost required. It can be time-consuming, but professionals should focus on social networking sites like LinkedIn, a business-oriented site with over 37 million members. According to the company, requests from people using the service to find jobs are up 48 percent. Recruiters and hiring managers are using creative ways to find and evaluate qualified candidates, even social networking sites.

For further assistance with establishing your professional presence before your networking journey, contact Global Image Group. Also, look for future blogs specifically on networking for career changers.