5 Reasons Your Networking Is NOT Working

5 Reasons Your Networking isNOT Working

www.ExecutiveCareerSuccess.com

Kim MeningerExecutive Coach & Career [email protected]

You understand that networking is critical to your career success.

You attend networking events, use LinkedIn, and even ask others for help,

but your networking is not working.


Here are 5 reasons why:

1. You lack a networking strategy.

Networking without a plan is a great way to

waste time and experience frustration.


– Do you want to learn about a particular target company?

– Are you interested in meeting other executives with similar interests?

– Are you looking for contacts in a new industry?


Before you begin networking, clarify your specific goal(s).

Solution

• Clearly define your questions.

• Focus your networking efforts on finding the answers.

• Strategically seek out contacts who can help you so that you don’t waste time.


2. Your message is unclear.

• If you cannot clearly and succinctly introduce yourself and define your goals, even the most motivated networkers will be unable to help you.– They won’t understand your needs and how to

meet them.


Develop a focused introduction that clearly captures who you are and why you’re there.

Practice this before each networking encounter to ensure that you’re prepared for the

discussion.


Solution

3. You’re too impatient.

When you network, you expect to see immediate rewards.

– Networking doesn’t work that way.– It’s not sufficient to engage in one or two

discussions with someone.– To experience the benefits of networking, you

need to invest in mutually beneficial relationships.


It is critical to cultivate your network before you need help.– Offer your support and build trust with others to

establish a strong foundation upon which to build when you have specific needs.

– Attempting to shortcut the process will only frustrate you and your contacts.


Solution

4. Your discussions are too job-centric.

If you’re in career transition, your number one priority is finding a new job.– Asking your network to help you find a job is a

highly ineffective networking strategy - it puts your networking contacts on the spot.

– Most people want to help, but if they feel that they can’t, they won’t respond.

– If they can’t help you immediately, you’ll fall off their radar very quickly.


• Rather than ask someone for help with your job search, ask them for information you know they can provide.

• Leverage their expertise by asking for insights, advice, and information on specific industries, companies, or roles.– They’ll be flattered that you came to them and

you’ll gain far more valuable support than you would by asking them to forward your resume.


Solution

5. You’re not following up effectively.

Far too many executives give up because of a lack of initial response.

– How often have you intended to respond to an email, but it slipped your mind?

– Chances are, the same thing happened to your contact.


• Rather than assume a lack of interest, try sending him information he may find helpful, or invite her to an event she may want to attend.

• When you lead with value, you’re more likely to get a positive response.


Solution

• Networking is an art not a science.

• There is no one right way to network.

• Much of it depends on your personality and unique goals.


If your networking is not working, review these five points and adjust your strategy accordingly.

If necessary, seek help from an expert who can help you maximize your networking approach.



Get your complimentary copy of:5 Surefire Signs It’s Time to Change Your

Executive Career &

The Most Powerful Step You Can Take Today to Launch Your New Executive Career

Kim MeningerExecutive Coach & Career [email protected]

http://www.executivecareersuccess.com/subscribe

Date post:	13-Jan-2017
Category:	Career
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