While some may reserve networking for times when they’re in a job search, others are continually working to build and maintain their network. How about you? Do you know and practice the basics of networking? Have you made a list of your contacts and let each person know what type of work you are seeking? Are you plugged into online social media networking? If you’ve mastered the basics, you may be wondering how to take networking to the next level. Considerations range from staying motivated during a long job search to creating networking opportunities from everyday events.

Staying Motivated 

Networking doesn’t result in a job instantly. It takes time to develop, nurture, and expand your relationships. According to Thom Singer, author of “Some Assembly Required: How to Make, Grow, and Keep Your Business Relationships,” it takes 7-10 meaningful interactions to create an effective networking relationship.” The same holds true for personal networking. 

If you’ve been in a long job search, how do you stay motivated? First, ask yourself honestly, “How much time am I really devoting to networking each week?” When seeking work, set a goal of at least three 1:1 networking meetings per week. The more you network, the more momentum you’ll gain which can be a good motivator. Set up a system to prioritize your contacts and a way to stay in contact with each person in your network.  

Prioritizing Your Contacts 

You may want to consider prioritizing your contacts into “A’s,” B’s, or C’s according to the level of influence they may have on your job search. You’ll want key influencers on your “A” list. This could include hiring managers, industry leaders, and well-connected former co-workers in your field. Keep in contact with your "A's"  more often than those in the other categories. Your “B” list can include family, friends, and acquaintances. You will most likely be in regular contact with your immediate family and close friends. Your “C” list may include professionals such as your doctor, dentist, lawyer, hairstylist, etc. These folks come into contact with a large amount of people every day- people that may work at a company with which you’re interested or a hiring manager. Which phase of the job search you are in will determine the frequency of contact with each group. And, you may find that some may shift from “A” to “B” etc., depending on your needs. 

Have a System 

Set up a system that will help you maintain regular contact with your network. Microsoft Outlook, Excel, or JibberJobber are just a few programs that you can use. To manage my networking contacts, I use SendOutCards. To learn more about this system read the article below on follow-up.

Non-Mainstream Opportunities 

The basics of networking include attending job search support groups, joining and participating in industry-related associations, and attending conferences. How do you find or create networking opportunities that aren’t in the mainstream? How can you create opportunities from everyday events? 

Think outside-the-box. Consider hosting a networking event in your living room, with your job search in mind. Invite your contacts for a “Martini Networking Night.” Ask each guest to bring someone from their own personal network. Provide light snacks, wine, martinis, or other beverages and an opportunity for attendees to network in a casual and relaxed setting. Offer a door prize drawing like a gift basket filled with goodies or a bottle of wine. 

“Pink Slip Parties”- a new twist on job fairs, are being held across the country. Job- seekers wear pink wrist bands and recruiters wear blue. Appetizers and drinks are served. It’s kind of link speed-dating for job seekers. If there aren’t any of these parties available in your city, consider organizing one yourself. 

Using Everyday Experiences 

Every person you meet provides you with an opportunity for networking. Whether you’re at a child’s soccer game or at church, getting your hair cut, or on an airplane, you can use that opportunity to meet new people. I never miss a chance to strike up a conversation. Whether I’m waiting for my luggage at the airport baggage claim or standing in line at a clothing store. What have you got to lose? You may just rub elbows with the CEO of that company you’ve been dying to work for. 

Keep in mind that employers like to hire people they know or people that come referred to them. Over 70% of executive-level positions are filled through personal connections. Networking isn’t meant to be a once every few years activity when you're looking for a new job. In fact, if you’re well networked, you may not even need to launch a full-blown job search campaign the next time you do find yourself looking for a new job. 

Take your networking to the next level. Try some of the above tips and let me know how they work for you!