Networking
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The Season for Networking Begins
November 17, 2010
I’ve lost count of the number of people (interns, summer associates, new hires) I encounter who tell me they absolutely abhor attending any sort of a networking event. When I ask why, I typically receive an answer along the lines of: “I hate the very idea of schmoozing.”
Let me assure you, “schmoozing” is not networking.
One expert has defined networking as “simply the process of building mutually beneficial relationships.” That phrase contains four key words.
The first key word is “relationships.” Anyone who has successfully developed a relationship with another human being has all of the skills that are necessary to succeed at networking. If you’ve managed to build a relationship with a parent, sibling, friend at school, or co-worker, you have all the skills that are needed to be proficient at networking.
The most successful networkers understand the importance of making their relationships “mutually beneficial,” two other critical words in the above definition. It’s human nature to tire of those who constantly ask for yet another favor. As you build your network, make sure you focus on giving as much information as you receive and making as many referrals as are directed your way. To the extent you become a valued contributor, people will seek out the opportunity to network with you.
The last key word is “simply.” It is related to the word “simple,” and I suspect most of us recognize there is nothing that is “simple” about human relationships. Human beings are complex individuals with unique needs and goals. To truly succeed as a networker, you must invest time and effort in getting to know others.
The holiday entertaining season presents a plethora of opportunities to connect with others. Use those events to build your personal and professional networks.
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