How to Network When You Dont Know Anyone

How to Network When You Dont Know Anyone How to Network When You Dont Know Anyone 4 If you feel that you dont know anyone, here are three strategies to begin creating and expanding your network: 1. Examine where you stand. Dont know anyone to build your network? Think again. Make a list of people, and youll likely find you need more paper. Family, friends, coworkers (past and present), and neighbors should come to mind easily. Then, dig a little deeper. To which groups do you belong? With whom does your spouse socialize? People you know from anywhere- be it your synagogue or the school PTA- can be valuable connections. Make a point of talking to a variety of people, and accept offers from others to introduce you. Casting a wide net presents more opportunities to network, and you simply never know who might be in a position to help. As you find people with whom you seem to “click,” work on cultivating those relationships. Strong networks get built over time through mutual trust and respect. 2.  Utilize LinkedIn. When you join this professional online platform, one of the first things it can do is alert everyone on your email contacts list that you have set up a profile and ask each person to become one of your connections. This action has a variety of benefits, including “remembering” past acquaintances who slipped your mind. As people tend to be curious, most will view your profile, which starts the networking ball rolling. When someone accepts your connection request, follow up with a thank-you email and some light chat. Then, keep on top of the posts and career progress of your connections, and drop a line from time to time to offer encouragement, kudos, or input. Harnessing information from your profile and current connections, LinkedIn can recommend other people for your network. It also can facilitate meeting specific people of interest by looking for mutual connections to provide introductions. And dont forget to check out groups in your field of interest; they provide plenty of chances to meet others and establish a sense of community. 3. Get out there. Still find your network a bit thin? Start saying “yes” to more requests. This might mean being your offices representative at a conference, joining your neighborhood association, or finally attending your alma maters Homecoming celebration. Volunteer work can bring you into contact with all kinds of people, and having a common cause can be an icebreaker. Similarly, taking on a leadership position at a professional event encourages natural interaction with other committee members and attendees. Show some initiative; many people consider networking to be stressful, and they will be genuinely happy when you make the first move! Looking for more  advice? Weve got you covered. Check out our blog section dedicated to networking tips! Are you growing your network? What others tips about how to network would you offer to job seekers who think they dont know anyone? Let us know in the comments below!