Does the thought of networking make you quake in your boots? Never swapped business cards in your life? Don’t panic, let Debut take you through everything you need to know to boss networking and fast track your way to some great opportunities in the process.

Why is networking so important?

Yeah we get it. Small talking with random strangers about business developments in your sector isn’t anyone’s idea of a picnic. But networking is a super important means of succeeding in the job market and accessing roles which you otherwise might never even come close to.

Some studies have concluded that only 40% of jobs are actually advertised, and the rest are filled by connections within the industry. It’s an unfair way of doing things and is why the senior ranks of many industries are still inaccessible, but until the job market changes, if you want to get ahead you’re going to have to play the game.

You’ve probably heard the phrase ‘It’s not what you know, it’s who you know’ countless times. And while we would stress that having the skills and experience to back yourself up is essential, knowing the right people can help you get your foot in the door, and having a quality mentor will enable you to outstrip the competition. So how do you do it?

Some studies have concluded that only 40% of jobs are actually advertised

Network outside the box

When you think of networking, you might imagine a room of smartly dressed business types chatting over canapes and discussing the stock market. And while this type of networking does exist, you need to think of networking much more broadly. Networking happens all the time, everyday, at countless different opportunities and events. You just need to learn how to identify a potential networking opportunity when it occurs and seize the situation to establish a relationship. It’s not easy, but it’s something you’ll learn over time and with plenty of practice.

Different types of networking

So what different kinds of networking situations could you find yourself in? And how do you act appropriately when the time arrives?

Conferences
- Conferences are prime hunting grounds for networking. You’ll be in an enclosed space with hundreds of people working within your industry, from students to top level researchers and developers. While they can be quite intimidating, it’s important to exploit the opportunity while you can – ask questions during panel discussions, approach speakers at the end, use the subject matter of the speeches to initiate conversations with other attendees and always attend the evening activities. Take a stack of business cards (yes, you are qualified enough to have a business card), and meet as many people as you can.

Alumni talks
- Your university is likely to hold a number of these throughout the year, inviting back successful alumni either from the university as a whole or your specific course/department to talk about the success they’ve achieved since graduating. As always, ask questions when you’re able to, and approach speakers at the end for further questions and conversation. You’ve already got something in common (you went to the same university!) so use that to jump start a conversation.

Networking drinks
- Now this is the ‘scary’ one. Networking drinks are designed specifically for networking purposes and will typically involve having to ‘work the room’; that is, introduce yourself to as many people as possible, establish some good rapport and swap business cards. Just remember that two quality connections is better than half a dozen fleeting conversations, so pick out the most worthwhile contacts and spend some time forging a memorable relationship with them.

In the workplace
- Whenever you get the opportunity to enter the workplace, whether through work experience, internships or open days, your networking radar should be on high alert. Don’t just keep your head down and do your work, use the opportunity to talk to as many people as possible, find out what their roles are and ask if you can help them out. This will help you visualise exactly what kind of role you would suit you best, and help you make a positive impact within the company.

What you should get out of it

One of the things that people often freak out about when it comes to networking is the end goal – what are you aiming to get out of the person you’re talking to?

Number one golden rule: Try not to go into the conversation with any expectations. If you approach someone with the set intention of asking for some work experience or some other favour, it’ll be obvious to the person you’re talking to that you’re not interested in them, you’re just interested in what they can offer you.

The only thing you really need out of the exchange is the connection itself. All you really need is for that person to recognise your face at the end of it. If you do want to enquire about work experience or ask for some specific advice, make sure it happens naturally and don’t just dive in with the request straight away. Get to know them as a person before you start asking for favours – just like you would in any normal friendship.

Try not to go into the conversation with any expectations

Confidence issues

The main problem most people report when trying to network is not being confident enough to approach new people – strangers, essentially – especially those who work in positions much higher than your own. If you’re not particularly extroverted, being able to sustain a conversation over a long period of time with someone you barely know can be a challenge.

Try not to freak out – there are things you can do to make the experience easier. Take a friend with you, for example, or practice how you’re going to present yourself with a friend at home beforehand. It isn’t easy, but you will find it easier over time if you push yourself out of your comfort zone and start small. You can find lots more tips on networking for introverts here.

Dos and Don’ts

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Maintaining relationships

Networking doesn’t stop at the end of the event. Maintaining those relationships over time takes some dedication and effort. Here are the steps you should take to sustain a healthy connection:

After you meet someone at a networking event, connect with them on LinkedIn. Do this as soon as possible, while you’re still fresh in their mind.
Create a personalised message for your LinkedIn request: ‘It was great meeting you at [event name]. Thank you for your time and your advice on [topic]. Would be great to stay in touch.’
Also check to see if they have Twitter and give them a follow. Then like and retweet their Tweets when you see fit.
Don’t be afraid to ask for advice at a future occasion – even suggest meeting up for coffee to talk in more depth. Most will be happy to help, and it’s a great way to keep the connection fresh.
If you see something that they might find interesting based on a topic you previously discussed, refer them to the relevant article or website – just don’t bombard them with messages!
If you see them at a future event, always go over and reintroduce yourself, reminding them that you met previously. They’ll be glad you made the effort to reconnect.