Life rewards the specific and punishes the vague

Let’s face it, some of us are not networking naturals. It might feel awkward, disingenuous, or simply unsafe. But if you’ve recently lost your job, the best time to have a strong, strategic network of contacts was probably yesterday.

“Strategic” is the operative word. Networking should not be throwing yourself into happy hours, conferences or virtual events and hoping for the best.

Start With Your Inner Circle

Thinking about your network in layers of “Concentric Circles.” In your inner circle, check in with close colleagues who will remind you of your talents and unique contributions. Look to your family or friends to encourage you and build you up after a bad interview or celebrate after a good one. Then, tap into your “Secondary Network”, those people whom you know, but not as well.

Statistically,your next opportunity typically emerges from your secondary or tertiary network because they are made up of people who have access to information you and your primary network do not have access to. So, reach out to the colleague you worked with a few years ago, and reconnect with the neighbor you have not spoken with recently. Ask for input and help.

Be Specific

It never hurts to be specific when you are asking for help. In fact, it is key in inspiring your network to work with you. Just remember that in networking, life rewards the specific and punishes the vague.

Be clear about your expected outcomes and what you want to do. It will not only help your networks put you in touch with the right people, but it also expedites the time of your desired outcomes.

JMD

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J. Michael Dennis, ll.l., ll.m.

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