What Networking Is and Why It Works

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by Lyndy Nierman, senior coach of OI Partners—Chicago, IL and St. Louis, MO

SUMMARY The statistics don’t lie: networking works. But what is networking anyway? And what can it do for me? We take a closer look at the way networking works and the results it can bring for the job candidate.

ARTICLE Networking? What is it? It is getting out of your seat and meeting people. To quote Woody Allen, “Eighty percent of life is showing up.” Job seekers need to stretch out of their comfort zones. It’s all about letting others know who you are. In today’s competitive marketplace, it doesn’t matter how much education or tenure you possess in your particular profession, unless you can effectively communicate that knowledge and expertise, your success may take longer than you planned. Why network?

• Uncovers the “hidden job market”
• Offers support during your search
• Strengthens current relationships
• Re-establishes former relationships
• Develops new relationships

A properly developed people network provides an extra eye to locate appropriate opportunities tailored to his or her particular field. At a time when technology is superseding many roles formerly occupied by people, the human element cannot be discounted. People networks offer a safety net when things get tough. Beyond providing information, these networks offer support and encouragement in a role which suggests another perception of networking. And of course, we have all heard that networking is still the number one job search method and accounts for 70-80 percent of job offers.

A friend of mine, who was a senior vice president of human resources of a hospital, was downsized from his position. He had been on the job market for over 5 months. John tried to fill his days on the Internet and attending various professional organization meetings. One day, he had his dreaded dentist appointment that he had been putting off for months. While sitting in the chair, he explained his situation to his dentist. Much to his surprise, the dentist’s next patient was a CEO of the major hospital in the area. Introductions were made and the next thing you know, my friend started his new job at that hospital within a few weeks. Don’t discount the value of people: it is not necessarily who you know, but WHO THEY KNOW. Always be prepared, any time, any place.

So, get out from behind your desks and begin to embark on a new venture of networking. The relationships formed can be rewarding throughout your life, if you continue to nurture them.

Lyndy Nierman is a senior coach at OI Partners (Chicago, St. Louis) which specializes in Senior Executive Coaching, Talent Management and Career Transition.  She is a past National Board Member & Vice President of SHRM, Society of Human Resource Management.  Lyndy is currently a Board Member for EMA Chicago (Employment Management Association), The Illinois State Council (SHRM) and The House of Good Shepherd. Lyndy is the Founder and Director of The Human Resource Executives Exchange.