2.4 Developing your networks

You’ve already learned how feeling part of a community and having support from others can boost career resilience. So building those networks further is clearly a sensible strategy.

Figure 5

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This decorative image shows a representation of online networks. There are various profile photos of people with lines connecting them. This is set against a cyberspace background, with strings of binary code visible.

Figure 5

But networking, and in particular career networking, can be an area where individuals lack confidence. Some people feel the word conjures up images of unfair advantage, others are unsure how to approach it.

Activity 6 Networking

Timing: Allow about 10 minutes

Watch the video ‘What is networking?’, in which Wendy Woolery, Careers Advisor at The Open University, explains how you can extend and manage your network. You might want to pause the video to note some of the main points that are covered.

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Transcript: Video 5 What is networking?

WENDY WOOLERY:

What is networking?

Networking is about finding opportunities to interact with others, share information and develop professional and social contacts. It’s a way to encourage you to help yourself.

What does networking involve?

When you network, you need to identify relevant people connected with the work you want to do, build a rapport with them and an interest in what you have to offer, seek their help and advice, listen to their feedback and act on it. You need to be prepared to stand out.

Why network?

It’s a great way to tap into unadvertised jobs. It demonstrates your initiative, you make yourself more memorable by setting yourself apart from the normal application process and you hear about opportunities first, which may open up possibilities you didn’t expect.

How to start networking – key questions.

Who do you already know who might be connected to your career aims? Think about your personal contacts, those you know through your work, your study, or your leisure interests. Who of these already knows you can do a good job? Make them your priority.

How will you get in touch?

By phone, online via social networking sites, or a face-to-face chat.

What do you want from your contacts?

Is it insights on their work and experience? A list of relevant organisations and people? Introductions to others? Feedback on your CV? Advice on your area of interest?

End transcript: Video 5 What is networking?

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Video 5 What is networking?

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Now, identify three action points that would help you to extend and strengthen your community or career network.

You might have chosen to call an ex-colleague or agreed to volunteer on a project outside your immediate team – extending your connections a little bit further.

Research shows that having contact with individuals outside your immediate circles proves highly effective. It broadens your exposure to new messages and options, and the range of people looking on your behalf. So venture further afield as your confidence grows.