It is easy to make excuses not to network. Networking requires time and effort. However, networking is too important to your career and job search to avoid, no matter how uncomfortable you find it.
Take into consideration that referrals are the number one source of external hires, according to a 2015 report from CareerXroads, a staffing consultancy firm. That makes networking the best way to get in line for current and future opportunities.
Also ask yourself how some of your colleagues got promoted or moved to a different part of the company. Did they just submit a resume and land an interview? Or was it because they had a friend who referred them?
Networking is one of those life skills that will pay off. Instead of bypassing networking, see if some of these solutions and workarounds to common excuses will help you incorporate networking into your busy life.
1. “I am too shy.” Networking is uncomfortable for many people. But consider that this is an opportunity to develop your extroverted side. There are many people who don’t like networking and consider themselves shy, but they do it anyway. Learn by listening to people who love to network. Great networkers have a gift and enjoy helping people connect, so you may want to ask them to facilitate an introduction.
2. “I don’t know anyone.” Of course you know people. You have co-workers, past colleagues, neighbors, friends and family. Don’t prejudge or dismiss people you know because they have different professional interests.
Make a list and reach out to people every week. If it has been a while since you last spoke, your first outreach should be to catch up. And by all means, wait until they ask before you blurt out that you are looking for a new job. Networking is first and foremost about building and maintaining relationships. Be patient.
3. “I don’t know what to talk about.” A little small talk and prepared questions are all you need. Focus on learning about the person you are meeting with and what they do. Ask for advice.
You may find it more comfortable and easier to have a conversation if you research the person before meeting with them. Look at their LinkedIn profile, Google the person’s name and check out the company website. You are looking for professional and personal achievements to inquire about. You may even discover that you share something in common with the person.
4. “I have run out of people to talk to.” People who say this usually aren’t networking with the right intentions. You want to acquire information and resources. The name of someone who can provide insight about a company is what you’re looking for. One of two things should happen as you touch base with people in your network. Either people you meet will offer additional names, or you should ask for recommendations of helpful contacts.
5. “I don’t have time.” The meeting won’t take long. You just have to set aside time on your calendar to make it happen. You can meet early in the morning, during lunch or after work. You may even be able to meet with some people on the weekend. Be flexible and accommodate the other person’s schedule. And remember, you’ll be paying for their coffee, too.
6. “People keep turning me down for informational interviews.” First, don’t call it an informational interview. You are requesting a meeting. When you use the word “interview,” you sound like you are looking for a job. Honestly, you are looking for information. Evaluate how you ask for these networking meetings. Is it your wording? Is it your delivery? Are you calling on the phone or emailing? Ask a friend to critique your invitation. There are very few people who will turn down an invitation for help.
7. “Networking hasn’t worked for me in the past.” How long did you try it for? Were you expecting immediate results — perhaps a job offer on the spot? This process takes time. That is why it is important to continue networking even after you get a job. You never know when or where the next lead will come from. Don’t prejudge people or opportunities to connect. Follow up on every referral name and suggestion provided and connect back with the person who provided it. You never know. Most importantly, share information and be a good networking citizen.
Stepping outside your comfort zone is challenging. It takes practice to perfect some of these new networking skills, but don’t let that discourage you from consistently doing it.
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Nervous Networkers, Quit Making These 7 Excuses originally appeared on usnews.com
