Networking is a connecting tool used by the most powerful business people in the world. It brings ideas and resources together and solidifies many respectable careers. The State of Michigan recognizes the brilliance of networking and consistently creates opportunities for workers and employers to interact.
The most famous networking happened on season 10 of
The Apprentice with Donald Trump. David Johnson from Portage, Michigan was a tough competitor. He famously called "Marvin," the automated unemployment center, for financial check-in during an important task. David's tough job interview with Trump allowed him to network with some of the most influential business minds in the world. David is now running a successful business of his own. His television exposure infused new life into his prior business connections and generated viable customers. "It's a double edged sword," he said. "I've had customers tell me, they don't won't to do biz with me and those who are curious about bringing me in (AOL jobs)."
Michigan Works! Interview
Michigan Works! the agency that facilitates many programs for unemployed workers, offered a wealth of advice in an interview, a few weeks back. I sat down with Linda Gierlack a Business Services Field Representative, John Johnson and Robert McDonnell, Business Service Representatives, respectively. Their insight into employer expectations and expertise in networking generated invaluable information for anyone looking to impress a perspective employer or make crucial business connections.
The Interview
How do you define networking?
Networking is connecting unused and/or underused people and resources. Some of the most overlooked opportunities in networking are within a person's own sphere of influence. The first line of networking should happen with past employers, friends and neighbors.
What are the different types of networking opportunities available?
Formal networking- connecting with professionals in your field. This can happen at events and other organized venues.
Informal networking- talk to former co-workers and former customers. There is not a reason to be ashamed of your current employment status. Make sure you position yourself. Positioning yourself means you are not just taking, it means you have the ability to give. Good communication skills allow you to have back and forth dialogue, it is essential.
Social Media- Websites such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter can be powerful virtual connections to potential employers. It is difficult to replace face to face meetings, but social media has the potential to drive personal meetings.
What are the main objectives a person should have when networking?
You must know your personal and professional goals. This will guide your choices and identify the "right people" in your field. It is important to develop an elevator speech and be able to articulate your skills. You should never underestimate the potential of any conversation. Be prepared with resumes, business cards and a great attitude.
Who attends networking events?
People come together with common interests. For example, human resource people come together to learn new laws. If your career goals include HR, these events would be important to attend. It is important to remember these events are not always labeled as "networking."
What should you take to a networking event?
Your brand! As perspective employees your brand is just as important as Donald Trump's or Kim Kardashian. Their brands are well defined as well as broad. Trump capitalizes on wealth and luxury, while Kardashian embraces beauty and sexuality. You should know what you represent. For example: quality, dependability, loyalty or team work. Your brand is communicated in your dress, resume, business card and conversation. Do not take anything for granted be prepared to talk about your skills, your ability to deliver services and most importantly, be prepared to listen. Other things that come in abundance when you are seeking a job and/or making connections are objections and rejection. Be prepared to handle no, it is not personal, it is just a part of the process.
What should you do if you are undermined in a conversation?
Networking should take place in a relaxed environment. However, the competitive nature of human beings can sometimes provoke tension. If someone tries to hoard a conversation or make themselves look good at your expense, go talk to someone else; then come back and finish your conversation later. If you feel your name or reputation is being compromised, defend yourself without leaving a bad impression. This same plan of action can work with ex sabotaging co-workers or supervisors. Unfortunately some people are only happy when they cause others pain.
At the close of our interview I asked each of the
Michigan Works! experts for closing advice. Here are the last thoughts of an inspiring interview:
Linda Gierlack: "Stay positive!" "A positive attitude can take you a long way."
John Johnson: "Build your own brand!" "Brand building is imperative, along with a personal mission statement."
Robert McDonnell: "Get out of the house!" "It is easy to use the computer for job applications, but nothing beats personal contact."
My Final Thoughts
Networking is an activity that takes place daily, many times it is viewed as having small talk, being polite or passing time. These misconceptions allow important professional connections to fail. It is important to be aware of the potential conversations generate. This extra energy put into focus, dialogue and thoughts can make a difference in the success of your career. In other words, always be prepared.
Everything here, is a personal opinion of the writer and is not read or edited
for content or approved by Michigan Works! before it is posted. No warranties or
guarantees are made as to the quality or reliability of the opinions and statements or
anything else offered on this Blog.”
And Blog entries posted by non-Michigan Works! employees are not published by the
Organization. Michigan Works! has no control over these postings, does not endorse them,
and makes no warranties or guarantees as to the quality or reliability of the opinions and
statements offered by non-Organization employees on this Blog.
