Networking focuses on creating relationships within your career field. Many professionals credit networking with helping them advance and build successful careers. It’s all about making connections that benefit both parties professionally. It is good to get in the habit of viewing all your professional and even personal interactions as an opportunity to network. You never know who might be aware of a great job opening. The more people know about your skills and goals, the more likely they are to think of you when a terrific opportunity arises. If you are new to networking or are seeking helpful pointers on how to foster strong relationships, keep reading to learn useful tips for better networking.
1. Create a Strong Elevator Pitch
Everybody is busy, and their time is valuable which means you don’t want to waste it. An elevator pitch is a short professional introduction in which you briefly explain what you do and what you hope to achieve in your career. In many cases, this will be just the starting point of your conversation, but in other situations you might not have time to add much more.
You can follow the elevator pitch guide created by our Career Advising Specialists to help get you started.
2. Look for Connections Everywhere
Sometimes, networking involves setting up a formal meeting with someone in a professional context, but don’t limit yourself to such opportunities. Networking can happen quietly when you meet new people at a party, a wedding, or other social gathering.
3. Build Quality Relationships
Some workers think networking is simply about gaining as many phone numbers from as many people as humanly possible, but that is not always the case. It is important to build quality relationships, even if that means a smaller network. When people genuinely like and care about you, they are more likely to go the extra mile to help you move forward in your career.
4. Network with Peers
It's natural to want to focus on building a network of people who have the power to hire. However, networking with peers who are working at your same job level can be just as important. These colleagues often can alert you to open positions and may have enough influence to help you land the role.
Check out the to interact with other UMGC alumni, students, and industry professionals.
5. Be Interested in Others
Everyone understands that people network to grow their careers, but it is important to make these connections valuable to both parties. Pay attention to what the other person is saying, show genuine interest, and remember to ask follow-up questions. Make sure you are having real conversations while you network.
6. Stay in Touch
Keep in touch occasionally, but don't email or text someone constantly. It is important to avoid going overboard. You want to stay in the person’s mind without wearing out your welcome.
7. Take Things Slow
Some people may struggle to network successfully, and it’s okay if you are experiencing difficulties when starting out. Networking doesn’t come naturally to everybody. This is especially true of those who are more introverted.
The more you attempt to network, the sharper your networking skills will become. Don’t worry if you make the occasional mistake or if you simply feel awkward. It’s all part of the learning process, and it will get better with time.
8. Don’t Ask for a Job
The goal of networking is to find a job or advance your career, but you should never simply ask for a position. Instead, put your best foot forward by selling your skills and showing interest in both your industry and the company you hope will hire you. Do this well, and you will eventually get the job you want without having to ask for it.
Summary
Networking can go a long way toward making your career a success. As you network, make sure you keep your skills up to date and that you continue to push forward in your quest for career success. While a good network will help provide guidance and opportunities, you should also maintain a strong resume and develop your interviewing skills to land your next position.
To grow your network and get assistance with polishing your resume, log into to access the Career Services resources and tools exclusively for UMGC students and alumni.
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