How to Network Successfully

When I was encouraged to network during my college years in order to launch a new career and become wildly successful, I really had no idea what it meant. This was before Facebook and Myspace, before email was used for 99% of correspondence and before employers wanted 100 different skills just to land an entry-level position. Back then I got the sickening feeling networking was the equivalent of cold calling and making awkward conversation in a room full of suits. My response was to largely avoid it and pave a path of solitude in my job search. It wasn't until years later that I understood the power of networking. According to the US Department of Labor, only about 5 percent of career seekers obtain jobs through the "open" job market with the help of online and print want ads. So if you're waiting to find that perfect dream job on craigslist.com, you might have awhile to wait.

Luckily the Internet exploded and brought an onslaught of simple networking tools and opportunities that even the most shy or socially awkward can master. And with the fierce competition and layoffs in today's market, networking might be your best bet for finding a new job.

How to Network

* Join Facebook or Myspace and join groups with like minded professionals to get the ball rolling and open the door for new communication.

* Once you've made acquaintances online, throw a get-together at a local pub or coffee shop to talk shop. Take the lead by introducing yourself and opening the floor to discussion. Chatter will ensue and you won't have to worry about managing the conversation if you're feeling nervous.

* Start a blog about your interests in real estate, marketing, writing, or other career interests and post on blogs and blog carnivals to gain interest and establish a following. You can also showcase your current work and past projects, offer consulting services, and open the discussion for new work.

* Attend events and sign-up for workshops that cater to your specific market. Bring along business cards and swap information with fellow classmates.

* Go online and find networking groups in your community that meet for local events and host guest speakers. Tapping the local market for new work should be your primary focus in your networking endeavor.

* Don't underestimate the power of being personable and friendly. I've made countless contacts on vacations, parties, and just around town from taking a genuine interest in others. The more of an effort I make, the easier it is to land a business card or new lead for an upcoming project.

Now that you have a few ideas on how to network, you'll need a few tools to make it easier for you.

Networking Tools

* Quality business cards with your name, email, and phone number. It's a good idea to put 'Writer' or 'Graphic Designer' so that person will know exactly what you're looking for if they pull your card out months later. It's also a fun idea to include a sharp graphic or picture of yourself to personalize it.

* Send hand-written thank you notes to colleagues, friends, and new contacts who took the time to talk to you or forward on your resume to someone else.

* A blog or website with your picture and accomplishments is an easy way for others to find you online.

* Once you've joined a few networking groups on your own, get involved by offering to lecture or conduct a workshop. Don't forget that most career oriented workshops and classes are tax deductible. And that's good news for tax time.

One important philosophy I've learned through networking is that I reap what I sow. It's an old saying my Mom use to constantly quote, and I didn't really pay much attention to it. But i discovered the more time and energy I put into meeting new people, fostering my contacts, and believing I could achieve my goals, the easier and quicker it happened. It would be difficult to assume you can have a powerhouse of leads and contacts if you're hiding in your house and refusing to take the first step. No one's going to knock on your door unless you invite that person to knock.