By Chrissy Wortzman, PHR SHRM-CP, HR Business Partner, US Steel Corporation
Someone once told me, “nothing lasts forever.” I personally experienced that late last year when I lost my job – a job that I loved. In today’s economic climate and ever-changing job market the LinkedIn #opentowork is becoming more common.
When I faced this uncertain time in my life, I leaned on my supportive network that I successfully built over my 25 years as a professional. Throughout my career, I developed a network of peers, senior leaders, clients, and others I met along my career journey who share a passion for Human Resources.
Networking does not happen overnight; networking is about building relationships on trust. Networking takes time and effort; it is not simply a process of collecting contacts, but rather building a personal connection and giving the proper time for that relationship to mature.
Thanks to my network and my dedication to staying in touch with my connections, I was able to lean on this incredible group of people during one of the hardest times of my life. With this support system, I found a new job and I couldn’t be happier. Everything happens for a reason, and I believe I landed right where I am meant to be to continue my career in Human Resources.
Now, let’s start building your network one relationship at a time.
Here are 6 tips to build your network and make it work for you:
- Make genuine connections: Talk to people, understand and learn about their interests. As you make connections, ask questions, be authentic, be curious, and be open to learning. I learned from connections at all levels, whether someone was a seasoned professional or just starting their career journey. Don’t just stick to connections within your immediate circle or work team. Expand that network, ask others to help make introductions to connections that will help to fulfill your goals or career aspirations. Be open and share your true self as authenticity leads to more genuine and meaningful relationships.
- Be patient: With any relationship, it takes time and effort to build a solid foundation. One thing I learned is that you can’t force any relationship. It will come over time as you begin to build rapport and trust. As you begin to build relationships, think about how you can begin to incorporate mentoring. Whether formal or informal, mentoring takes patience as you get to know one another, understand what works, and how the relationship can be a successful partnership. Trust the process.
- Build your LinkedIn profile: Create a LinkedIn profile and keep it updated and active. This should be more than just your resume. Include and highlight your skills, and more importantly, your experiences. Connect with contacts on LinkedIn. If you are interested in a particular company, view your contacts to see who may be connected to individuals at that company. Leverage your network if someone you know has a connection at a company or a specific job that piques your interest or matches your skillset.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help: We all have to start somewhere and you shouldn’t be ashamed to ask for help. Ask for exposure and introductions. Asking for help may lead to new contacts and new opportunities that you didn’t realize were out there.
- Look for networking events in your field of interest: There are free networking events everywhere! Attending events is a fantastic way to grow your network and talk to people with similar career interests or aspirations. After the event, connect on LinkedIn with anyone new that you met and send them a personalized note.
- Maintain your network: Whether it’s a check-in via a private message on LinkedIn, a text, or even meeting for a cup of coffee regularly, keep in touch with your network. We are all busy juggling life in so many directions, but one thing I learned is the importance of staying in touch.
When I found myself faced with job loss, having those check-ins with my network was critical. I had the time to personally connect with so many people who were part of my career journey. Feeling connected to my network, whether it was in person, on the phone, a LinkedIn message, or a text message, was exactly the support that I needed, and it allowed me to successfully land the next opportunity.
Building a network will take time, but I can tell you from personal experience, it is worth every minute you invest.
