Is Your NETworking?
by Robin Throckmorton, M.A., SPHR

Many of us would immediately answer yes to the question "Is Your NETworking?" But do you realize what networking really is? Do you understand the value that can be gained by networking? Do you do the appropriate preparation prior to a networking event? Do you follow-up after meeting a potential network contact? What are some resources available to help promote your networking opportunities? Let’s find out...

Let’s begin by defining networking so we are all on the same page. Believe it or not, according to Webster’s Dictionary networking is "The act of process of informally sharing information or support, especially among members of a professional group." To expand on this, networking is who you know and more importantly who knows you!!!

Most of us are so busy that we feel like we don’t have time to network. So comes the question, why should you network?

1. To gain or share expertise or information
   (For example — tips on human resources practices or best practices)
2. To increase exposure for company or self
   (For example — what company doesn’t need increased exposure in this market?)
3. Develop contacts for future use
   (For example — you never know when you may need to call a contact for a job or help)
4. Practice communications / presentation skills
   (For example — practice makes even an extrovert more perfect)

1. Brainstorm what YOU know
   You do know something. Think about what others compliment you on. You may even want to write it down and review it later for an ego boost and reminder of what your expertise is.
2. Identify who you know
   Consider any affiliations you may have that could help you like a human resources association, previous co-worker, or even a neighbor.
3. Identify what you need
   In the human resources profession, we often needs tips on how to implement an HR activity, referrals for those hard to fill positions, or just looking for your next job.
4. Identify how you will get it
   What is going to be the best avenue for you to get what you need? Is it going to be by going to the next association meeting? Sending a correspondence vie email or mail to your network? Directly calling select contacts?
5. Do it
   This is the step that is often skipped. If you have plans to go to an association meeting (to network), don’t just go but go on-time (or a few minutes early) so you can take advantage of the time to network plus don’t run out the minute the meeting is over – network.
6. Take notes
   We can’t remember everything! Always take notes after a networking opportunity. This may mean writing a physical description of the person on their business card or just notes about what you talked about or what you can follow-up with them about.
7. Follow-up
   No matter what, always follow-up. You should even follow-up if it is just to say thank you for the opportunity to talk at the meeting. You never know when that individual you just met may be a key to something you need in the future. Believe me, they will remember you if you take the time to follow-up.
8. Track results
   Develop a system to help you track your network. Some folks like to track their network in a rolodex or business card holder. Others use technology to track their network contacts in the email manager (i.e. Outlook). It really doesn’t matter as long as the system works for you. Be sure your system helps you find: a person, contact information, how you know the person, when you last spoke to them, etc.
9. Reciprocate
   Don’t always be on the receiving end or your network will quickly dry up. Be sure you are also giving as much as your network is giving to you. Remember, what comes around goes around.

• Join a local and national human resources association but more importantly go to the meetings on-time and GET INVOLVED!
• Participate on various chat boards and listservs
• Get involved with local affiliations (i.e. Chamber of Commerce, Roundtable meetings, Manager groups)
• and of course — use our e-HRNetwork to post your issues and begin networking with other e-HResources.com clients.

(If your association or organization would benefit from a 30 - 60 minute highly interactive session on networking, please call Robin Throckmorton at 513-697-9855 or Robin@strategichrinc.com for more details).

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