How to Get Started
Executing
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For those strong in Executing strengths, lean on your natural ability to “get the job done” to build mutually beneficial relationships. Set goals, make networking a part of your every day schedule or to-do list, and rely on your innate drive. You may view networking as more of an “ongoing project” than a natural part of your life, but, nevertheless, you can be just as successful as anyone by leveraging your strengths.
Make a list of all the people you know in your field of interest and begin reaching out to them one by one. Set tangible goals to connect with (X) number of people each month and at formal networking events set a goal to speak to (X) number of people. Find an accountability partner and share your goals with them. Your natural responsibility will lead you to completing the networking goals that you share with others. |
Influencing
| As someone strong in Influencing strengths, networking may come a little bit easier to you. You may be excited by the prospect of networking, meeting new people, and selling yourself to others. Use your influence and natural charm to clearly and effectively communicate your career goals and persuade others to help you in the job or internship search process. To combat some of the negative stereotypes about networking, make sure to convey your genuine interest in the fields you are pursuing and thank those that help you along the way.
Reach out to your large network with clear goals about what you are seeking (career information, internship assistance, a foot-in-the door in a specific industry). Use your Woo and Communication strengths to sell yourself to strangers. You have the potential to convince them to create new opportunities for you! Turn networking into a competition. Set goals with other influencing friends and see who can make the most new contacts! |
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Relationship Building
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Those strong in Relationship Building strengths may believe that networking is disingenuine. Remember that networking is establishing and maintaining mutually beneficial connections. Leverage your strengths to nurture current relationships that could be helpful in the future and look to help others in the career development process as a prelude to your own needs.
Utilize your adaptability strength and remain open to meeting new people in informal networking situations, such as waiting in line at a restaurant. Partner up with a friend and attend networking events together. Reach out to a trusted mentor and see who they recommend you connect with. |
Strategic Thinking
| Sometimes those that lead with strategic thinking strengths can make very reluctant networkers. However, there are ways to leverage your critical thinking abilities for your benefit. Before you begin networking, research and gather as much information as possible. Be the most prepared person in the room. Spark people’s interest by asking well-thought-out, big picture questions. Look to establish relationships based on common interests and intellectual curiosity.
Use strengths like Futuristic and Strategic to picture where you want to be in five years. Use that vision as motivation to meet others who can help you get there. Use Input and Learner to create a thorough list of questions to ask others. People love to talk about themselves and will appreciate your preparation. This will help you keep the conversation flowing, too! You have the ability to create a great elevator pitch. Write it out, practice it, and then end with a question that asks the other person for an actionable item. |
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