Be a Savvy Networker in Times of Transition

Last week, I was interviewed on a radio show called Positive Business about networking. The show’s host Patricia Raskin, asked me to talk about networking when you are in transition.

I think we can all relate to a time in our professional lives when we were in transition. Whether you were out of work, thinking about your next move or anticipated being downsized, turning to your network is one of your best business tools. Relationships are what drive business today – resumés move to top the of the pile because referrals make a difference. Beyond offering powerful connections, our networks are sounding boards and advisors who help us identify roadblocks find alternatives and uncover opportunities. Therefore, I think we need to be mindful of some important strategies when networking in times of transition.

Foremost, the goal of networking is to have relationships in place to help us when we need the help. Networking is not about how many people you know or who knows you, but who is willing to help when the need arises. It requires that you have the skills to build relationships and also the skills to tap into them. One of the most effective strategies you can engage in is to strategically strengthen your connections. It’s easy be get bogged down, to forgo staying connected and only turning to your network when you need help. However, people who know you and your professional brand, are the people who are most often willing to rally behind you when you need help. Therefore, prioritize keeping lines of communication warm with your strongest supporters. This allows for information and connections to flow more freely. Drop notes, forward articles of interest, recognize promotions, offer to help them, etc.

When you plan to attend an event, take the time to prepare. Be ready with a compelling and interesting introduction that is appropriate for the event and best communicates what you want people to know about you and your goals. Be prepared for a range of questions people might ask. Ask open-ended questions that might help uncover their needs, build connections and move the conversation in a meaningful direction. Remember that people are always forming opinions like: “Is this person interesting?”, “Do I want to get to know them better?”, “Does she have knowledge (skills, services) that can help me or someone I know?”

If you are in transition, strategically communicate your story and be specific about the help you are looking to gain. I have been at networking events where someone has asked me something like, “I’m an IT specialist in transition and looking for an introduction to a great company “ (who isn’t). “Do you have any recommendations?” Instead, communicate what you do (beyond your job title) and why you want to connect with a specific company or person. Look for the win for everyone involved, including the person who has offered to make the introduction.

Too often, we forget to close the loop. Networking and building relationships take time – time you invest into helping others and time spent in activities that help people learn more about you. So after attending an event, ask yourself, “Who did you meet?”, “What did you learn?”, “Who can I help?”, “Is there an opportunity I should explore?”, “How will I follow-up?” Remember, that it is always easier to follow up with someone if they are expecting to hear from you. If someone has offered help, be sure to circle back with them to let them how you made out. Your goal is to begin to build a relationship and establish your personal brand reputation.

The important lesson, transition with confidence by allowing your network to work for you! Remember that when you are actively engaged and interested in your network, you will have web of relationships in place who are also interested in you, ready to help, especially in during challenging times.

Network ON!

Lisa Bergeron, President, Leading Women SENE/CT