Networking Your New Year Cure for the Career Blahs - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career

Networking Your New Year Cure for the Career Blahs - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career Another new year is just around the corner. And if you are part of the 15% of workers who  a Gallup poll says are underemployed or the 53% of workers who a Conference Board survey says are not satisfied with their current employment, perhaps this  is time to dust off your networking shoes and get out on the dance floor. Networking can be just what the doctor ordered. Most people know that networking can be the most  important tool to  help you increase you income and generate new career opportunities. Thoughtful networkers know how  to leverage  this tool and  get what they want. Alternatively, as I caution in Chapter 12 of Fast Track Your Job Search (and Career!),   Lack of a clear and effective networking strategy or simply the failure to be an active networker can be a roadblock to your career progress. So, lets assume you are ready to crank up your efforts  in the new year and become a more active networker. Thats great. But, before you get started,  you would be wise to think about  how and where and with  whom  you will be doing your networking. A more thoughtful strategy will help insure that you are spending your precious time wisely. Here are four  classic networking mistakes and some ideas for avoiding them: 1. The first mistake many people make is that  they choose group networking over one-on-one networking. Most  instantly turn to  professional, industry, or other group functions because they see these as  the most natural networking venues.  These are natural, but they are also not very effective.  Replace group networking with more  one-on-one over coffees, breakfasts, lunches, and  after-work drinks  as these tend  to produce more tangible results. 2. The second mistake many people make is that they fail to clearly define their ultimate goal and the smaller goals they want to achieve during each networking encounter. Take time to craft a brief statement that will answer the age old question networking  question you are likely to  be  asked: So, what do you want to do next? Also, set a measure able objective for each individual encounter. 3. The third mistake many people make is that they conduct their one-on-one networking without a well defined agenda. Most show up, ramble on or let the other person ramble on, and leave feeling they didnt get any tangible value from the meeting. Set a simple, logical agenda in advance and stick to it. This will pay dividends and avoid lots of wasted time. 4. The fourth mistake many people make is that they approach networking as if it is a one-way street. Most talk about their needs without focusing on the fact that the other person is likely to have needs, too. Try asking How can I help you? and similar questions, sincerely trying to uncover the other persons needs. This will make the conversation more reciprocal in nature and just may help you identify a way to you  can help others while they are helping you. I promise you that if you take your networking game to the next level in these four areas you will greatly improve your career networking results. Whether you are seeking to make a move within your current employer or seeking to jump ship, more and better networking can help you greatly. I see it every day with my clients. You deserve a great career opportunities which pay you what you are worth and satisfy most of your occupational desires. Theres no better time than now to make a new year resolution to improve your career situation. But, statistically, it will not come to you to by waiting by the phone. You have to get out of your comfort zone and go  find it. Merry Christmas and Happy Networking!