The Art of the Schmooze (or Networking 101) 

By Jayne Hayden

Career Resource Centre Manager

University of Waterloo

 

Networking. You've heard that word many times. You have also heard that it is the most effective method for finding work. And, like it or not, in today's business world, networking is essential for survival. Fortunately, in some ways, networking is easier in university than it will be in the ‘professional' world. But what is it really, and how DO you do it?

 

At its most basic level, networking is making contacts in order to gather information, advice, and referrals. More accurately, though, it is a life-long process of actively building relationships with people. It is NOT ‘using' people to get what you want. To be an effective networker, you must realize that networking is a two-way street: people are more willing to help you if you come across as someone who is genuinely interested in them and appreciative of the assistance they provide. Make sure to follow up with a ‘thank you', and attempt to reciprocate in some way - for example, if you come across anything that might be helpful or useful to them, pass it on. Show them that you are just as valuable to them as they are to you.

 

The bad news is that, for most of us, networking is not a natural skill. And those who network poorly risk falling even farther behind. You've probably heard of the ‘six degrees of separation' - the premise that we can get to just about anyone in the world through six levels of contacts. But in this new millenium, the successful networkers are those who can do it in less. You know, they're the ones who, while we are trying to figure out how to introduce ourselves to the CEO across the room, already know her on a first name basis and are now getting to know her more powerful friends!

 

The good news is that networking is a skill that can be developed. And develop it you should - as soon in your university career as possible. The earlier you start, the stronger your network will be when you graduate. Before you begin, you need to be clear about your objective. What is your goal? What type of work are you seeking? Be as specific as possible. You should also prepare and rehearse a 30 to 60 second “infomercial” about yourself and what you are seeking. Now you are ready to practice! Okay… so how?

 

First, make the most of your summer jobs, internships and co-op work terms. You may not need your ‘elevator speech' about yourself here, but your goals should still be clear. Resist the temptation to go for lunch everyday with the other students who may be working in your company. Make a point of getting to know the ‘regular' staff, and build relationships with them. Use coffee machine and lunchtime chats to find out more about the company, its people, and other possible areas in which you might like to work. This way you'll meet people outside your work area, and your conversations may teach you which projects - and which managers - you may like to work for. By tactfully asking the right questions of the right people, you may gain some valuable contacts. You may also develop a mentoring relationship with someone who can play a big role in your future. Think beyond just doing your work term assignment. Of course you need to have the skills and knowledge to be hired when you graduate (you've got those, though -- right?), but your having made that extra effort on your work term(s) could make the difference in a ‘permanent' job offer.

 

Don't forget career and job fairs. These are excellent opportunities to network with potential future employers - provided you prepare properly for them.

 

Attend the ever-increasing number of campus employer information sessions and receptions. These are networking gold mines that provide you with the opportunity to socialize with recruiters and others who might be helpful in your job search. They, like career fairs, are hard work, but you should take advantage of them! Plan to arrive a little early - you may just have the recruiters all to yourself before the other students show up. If you are unable to find out beforehand what to wear, dress in business attire - don't wear jeans! If refreshments are served, ensure you keep your drink (or food) in your left hand, and keep that right hand ready for shaking. (Note: if alcohol is served, restrict yourself to ONE - and don't stand in front of the bar:

 

The above is an excerpt from The Last Job Search Guide You'll Ever Need: How to Find and Get the Job or Internship of Your Dreams, which is available for sale for $19.85 in our bookstore or $27.00 at Amazon.com but for free to those who subscriber to our free career newsletter. This hot new book contains job search secrets of the most experienced, most knowledgeable and most respected career experts. Learn career planning, job hunting tools and tactics, interviewing, cover letter and resume writing (lots of samples!), networking, and how to find an internship. Written by 149 career experts. To receive a free copy, subscribe to our free career newsletter.

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