Getting a job might be more about who you know than what you know – but don’t be so obvious about it. People are not going to be inclined to help you if they feel like you are just talking to them because you expect them to help you find a job, Diane Kulseth writes in an article for The Daily Muse.
At one point you were told that fellow networkers are going to help you land your next job, which can be true. But if you expect them to have a pocketful of valuable connections with whom you can speak, or opportunities at the ready; you’re in for a disappointed time. Networking is a process that is invaluable, but it takes more time than one visit.
What works is communicating with people who have the same goal in mind, landing a job. Isn’t that what one does when they network, you wonder? Not necessarily. Some people don’t get the concept. Communicating should consist of an exchange of words from which both parties can benefit.
“If you’re looking for a job, don’t ask for it – work for it,” Diane writes. How? By finding out how you can use your expertise to help them first. You’ve heard, “Help others before asking for help.” I personally think this is a good one to adopt. Don’t go to a networking event only expecting help. Have conversations with people who can be of mutual assistance.