Lessons from the Spider’s Web - Tools for Successful Networking

By: Sue Murthi
Student Services Coordinator/Certified Wellness Counsellor and Life Coach
For Eton College, Vancouver
(specialist in Hospitality, Tourism and Business education)

Eton College students at the 2012 Hospitality and Tourism Student Rendezvous networking event held in Vancouver, where students interacted and exchanged ideas with industry professionals

What comes to your mind when you think of a spider web??? Sticky stuff that traps anything that lands on it- right? The spider cleverly traps its food through the netting (its web) that it spins. Likewise, people who have created themselves a network of allies are more likely to experience greater success at finding a job than those that totally rely on traditional sources for employment, such as newspaper advertisements, or internet sites.

Networking is the number one source for job success. According to employment statistics, 66% of all jobs are secured through networking that is individuals were guided to job openings by the people that they were connected with or had an influence over.

In summary, Networking:

• is a relationship building process that can extend beyond your immediate circle of friends and families
• provide mutual benefits for all involved in the process. This implies giving and sharing of goodwill and receiving of helpful results.
• requires time to build, but can happen anywhere at anytime
• requires a show of integrity, credibility and trust

Why is Networking so important?
Through networking, you can create your support base of allies – people that you can turn to when in need especially if that need is to help you land a job.

Where can I network?
Everyone that you directly or indirectly know has a potential to help you or be a part of your network. As an example, your best friend’s parents could be a potential source of help to you. The people that they know, for example their employers, could also become a part of your network through the connection you have built with your best friend’s parents. So for every one person you know, you can become connected to ten more through their connections!

So to get started, make a list of all the people that you already know. These could be your relatives, friends from school, your church or community group, neighbours, teachers, classmates, hairdresser, dentist, sports coach and the list can go on. From this list, pull out people that you can right away access- i.e. you are comfortable talking to. Let these people know what is going on in your life currently. Share with them some information about your personal background, your education, your experience and if you are currently seeking employment, what is it that you are specifically looking for and your career goals. By doing this, you are putting the word out there about your intention to seek employment. Attend social and business events. Remember, you need to seek out opportunities to network. You may find event calendars on the internet sites in areas of interest to you. Always research first before attending any such events. Find out what the event is about, who you will likely meet, what is the dress code so that you do not feel out of place, and always bring a business card with you.

How should I conduct myself or what should I do to network successfully?
The first thing to remember is that the main purpose of networking is to build a sustainable relationship that will likely support you down the road. A relationship implies that there is mutual benefit, understanding, respect, trust and support between the parties concerned. So it is critical to remind yourself that networking is not all about you. When you network, you are also helping another along the way.

Now that we have got that straight, let’s look at some ways you can successfully network:

1. Be aware of the first message you send out about yourself: The first impression you create is your first step towards building a lasting relationship that can support you through life. 
2. Listen actively: Be sincerely interested in what the person you are talking to has to say.
   
3. Know how you can help: When interacting, key in on the other person’s interests, concerns or needs.
   
4. Be modest and avoid being arrogant.
   
5. Good questions will bring you good results: Prepare good networking questions especially if the networking event is a formal one, where you are likely to meet a potential employer.
6. Ask and you shall receive: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Most people like the feeling of being needed or feel important. You will be surprised how easy help can come your way.
7. Don’t go anywhere without your Resume: Don’t go anywhere without copies of your updated resume. You never know when you will meet a hiring manager or someone who knows a person with this authority.
8. Make yourself a calling card: If you are a student, you can also make yourself a business card that mentions the program you are enrolled in or have attended or your credential such as Diploma Graduate in Hospitality Management. I personally like to include a tag line that speaks to my interest or philosophy in life- for example, “I believe in Empowering Lives”.
   
9. Good follow-ups cement relationships: Always follow-up with the persons you have connected with either by phone or email. A quick thank you note is in order after every meeting and gives you a reason to stay connected and firm up the relationship.
10. Join Professional Networking organizations: Become a member of a professional organization in your field of interest – these offer great opportunities for networking with like-minded people.