If the word “networking” conjures up visions of a crowded room filled with awkward small talk and people walking around trying to sell you something, well, you’re certainly not alone. Networking has gotten a bad rap, and there’s good reason. But the truth is that there are ways to leverage the power of networking—especially as a job seeker—that will accelerate your search, help you meet the right people, and be devoid of all the “ick” factor. You just need some networking tips and tricks.
The first thing to know is this: Networking isn’t about working a room. It’s about building relationships.
Used strategically, networking can be part of your forever outreach strategy and not just delegated to some dark corner of your toolbox to only be pulled out when you need something. Instead, by shifting your approach, you can make meaningful connections, learn from other professionals, and stay visible to people who may be able to help you today or somewhere down the road.
Planning and Preparation Are Key to Networking Success
Walking into a networking event without a plan can make an already uncomfortable experience feel overwhelming. Before you go, think about what you would like to accomplish at the event. The likelihood that you’ll create immediate results is slim, but your efforts compound over time. Consider setting realistic networking goals, such as:
- Meeting five new people.
- Having three meaningful conversations.
- Connecting with someone from a particular company.
- Learning more about an industry you’re considering.
- Identifying someone who can introduce you to a specific contact.
Your goal doesn’t need to be complicated, and it shouldn’t be to meet everyone in the room. However, by setting simple goals, you’ll give yourself something to aim for—a metric that can help you identify when you’ve been successful.
Bring a Buddy If You Need One
If the idea of walking into an event alone makes you want to suddenly develop an urgent appointment elsewhere, it’s okay to grab a networking buddy. A friend or colleague can provide moral support and a way to spark conversations (and seamlessly interject yourselves into those that are already happening).
The key point to having a networking buddy is not to stick exclusively with that person, however. Arrive together, introduce one another to people, and then branch out. You may even agree ahead of time to check in periodically or set a goal for how many new people each of you will meet. There’s nothing wrong with needing a little support while you rebuild your networking muscles, and your friend may appreciate the activity as well.
Have Some Small Talk Ready
Small talk doesn’t come easily to everyone, but the truth is that you only need a few key phrases to get people talking. A smile and genuine “hello” are always great openers. Then, you can launch into your bank of open-ended questions:
- “What brought you to this event?”
- “How did you get involved in this organization?”
- “What are you seeing in your industry right now?”
- “Whom do you hope to meet here?”
And remember that networking conversations don’t have to immediately become job-search conversations. People generally enjoy talking about what they do, how they got there, and what’s happening in their industry. Be curious and listen. The best networking conversations feel like conversations, not interrogations.
Know How to Answer, “What Do You Do?”
It’s going to happen at a networking event. After you introduce yourself to a new person, you’ll inevitably be asked: “What do you do?” Having a great answer is key—especially if you’re a job seeker. You may be tempted to respond that you’re not currently working, but that’s a quick turnoff to your new connection. Instead, look to the future:
“I’m a marketing leader with experience building B2B brands and leading integrated campaigns. I’m looking for a director-level marketing role where I can help a growing organization strengthen its brand and generate demand.”
That’s considerably more useful than: “I was laid off and I’m looking for a job.”
The first statement gives people something to latch onto. It tells them what you bring to the table and how they might be able to help. It starts conversations. And it’s likely to divert any questions about why you’re looking, but if you are asked, there’s no reason to shy away from the layoff. Workforce reductions happen. And in nearly all instances, being laid off has far more to do with the organization’s business circumstances than the individual’s performance. No need to apologize for it.
Prepare Your 30-Second Commercial
You may also find yourself in a situation where someone asks everyone in the room to introduce themselves or give a brief overview of what they do. This is where having a 30-second commercial prepared can make a huge difference.
Think of it as a slightly longer version of your answer to “What do you do?” It should briefly cover:
Who you are + what you do well + what you’re looking for.
For example:
“I’m a project management leader with deep experience directing complex technology implementations and cross-functional teams. I’ve spent much of my career helping organizations bring large projects in on time and within budget, and I’m now looking for a senior project management role where I can bring that experience to a growing organization. I’m targeting technology firms such as Intel and Apple.”
Keep your introduction conversational. You aren’t delivering a keynote speech; you’re simply giving people enough information to understand where you fit and how they might help.
Know Where to Find Networking Opportunities
Networking doesn’t have to mean attending a formal business mixer. Look for events and organizations that make sense for you. Good places to start include:
- Chambers of Commerce
- Industry and professional associations
- Referral networking groups
- Events listed on Eventbrite
- Meetup groups
- Alumni organizations
- Job-seeker networking groups
- Conferences and trade shows
- Community and social events
The truth is that anything can be a networking event, whether it’s labeled as such or not. Any gathering of people will introduce you to folks you might not encounter through your traditional professional network. And you never know who knows someone who knows someone.
Don’t Forget LinkedIn
Of course, while networking in person is an ideal option, it’s not the only option. LinkedIn provides the perfect opportunity to connect virtually with professionals—whether in your own neighborhood or on the other side of the world.
Connecting directly with people, following their posts, emailing, and chatting are all great LinkedIn options. There are also groups and events that you can get involved in on the site, expanding your outlets for meeting more people.
Even if you meet in person, be sure to incorporate LinkedIn, which makes staying in touch that much easier. You can exchange traditional business cards, ask for the other person’s card and follow up directly, or share your QR code to give direct access to your profile via the LinkedIn app on your smartphone.
Have a Follow-Up Plan
Networking is fabulous, but if you don’t stay in touch after you meet, that connection won’t last long. Instead, you want to ensure you follow up, preferably within 24 hours of meeting. Send a connection request on LinkedIn and/or a direct email. Thank the person for their time, mention something you discussed, and share a little more about yourself.
You might say:
“It was great to meet you at the Chamber event last night. I enjoyed our conversation about how AI is changing the healthcare industry. I’m sure there will be more to come! As a reminder, I am looking for a role in healthcare marketing, and I am targeting Banner Health for a director position. I’ll follow up on LinkedIn as well so we can stay connected.”
If you see that there’s a reason to accelerate the conversation, do it! Ask for a quick Zoom call or in-person coffee meeting and make it happen.
Stay in Touch
Networking isn’t a one-and-done activity. If you meet someone interesting, find ways to stay connected.
- Comment on their LinkedIn posts.
- Congratulate them when they have a professional accomplishment.
- Share an article they might find useful.
- Check in occasionally.
And remember that networking works both ways. If you come across something that could help your new contact, send it. If you know someone they should meet, make an introduction. And if they ask for your advice, be generous with your time.
You don’t need to maintain a complicated spreadsheet of every person you’ve ever met, but you should have some way of keeping track of meaningful connections and following up with them. The goal isn’t to build the biggest network; it’s to build a stronger network.
Don’t Let a Layoff Silence You
Networking can feel particularly challenging after a layoff because of all the emotions that are associated with it. The truth is simple: Your layoff is not your identity.
People understand that layoffs happen. Organizations restructure. Companies eliminate positions. Divisions close. Acquisitions happen. Budgets change. Entire industries evolve. And 99% of the time, those situations have nothing to do with you.
Don’t let an experience you didn’t choose prevent you from talking about the career you’ve worked hard to build. Instead, tell people what you’re looking for. Be specific:
“I’m looking for a new opportunity” is better than saying nothing, but it’s not particularly actionable.
“I’m looking for a senior operations role in the healthcare industry, ideally with an organization that’s growing and going through a transformation” gives people something they can remember. And that’s ultimately what networking is about: being memorable to the right people for the right reasons.
Networking Is a Career Skill, Not Just a Job-Search Strategy
The strongest networks aren’t built when you suddenly need a job. They’re built throughout your career through genuine relationships, curiosity, generosity, and staying connected. If you’re currently searching for a job, though, there’s no better time to strengthen yours.
Start with a plan. Attend an event. Take a buddy, if you need one. Have a few conversation starters ready. Be prepared to explain what you do and what you’re looking for. Follow up with the people you meet and then stay in touch.
You don’t have to become the person who works every room. You simply need to become someone who is willing to start the conversation. And sometimes, one conversation is all it takes to open a door you didn’t even know existed.
About Transition Solutions
For more than 35 years, Transition Solutions has helped individuals successfully navigate career change through personalized coaching, innovative technology, and practical job-search strategies. Our experienced career consultants help job seekers build the confidence, skills, and strategies they need to move forward—including developing a networking strategy that works for them.
To learn more about our services, visit transitionsolutions.com, call 888-424-0003, or email info@transitionsolutions.com.
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