Top Ten Ideas for Building a Better Network

Whether you're fresh out of college looking for work or in midlife ready to make a career switch, networking remains key to finding a job. Below are ten ideas for making new connections.


1. College affiliations: Are you a college alumnus? Were you a member of a fraternity or sorority? Make sure you're on mailing lists to receive their publications and notices about upcoming events. Maintain your membership and consider how to participate.
   
   
2. Service clubs: Members of Rotary clubs, Masons, Kiwanis, and other philanthropic organizations are often leaders in their communities and places of work. Typically these clubs elect officers, providing all members an opportunity to develop their leadership abilities.
   
   
3. Volunteer organizations: Choose a cause you care about and get involved. In the process, you'll meet people with similar passions who want to make a difference in their communities and the world at large.
   
   
4. Professional trade organizations: Contacts here closely align to your specific profession. Belonging to a trade organization gives you credibility and helps you stay current in your field.
   
   
5. Churches, synagogues, mosques: Religious institutions provide another way to meet people. You may want to attend regular worship services or participate during special holidays. You can also choose to serve in an area where your skills are needed.
   
   
6. Friends and family: The best way to build your network may be right in your own backyard. Consider the different professions and activities represented by your friends and family members. Tell them about your goals and ask them about their jobs and experiences.
   
   
7. Cultural institutions: Museums, art galleries, book clubs, and historical societies, to name just a few, offer the one thing that you must have for a healthy network: culture. In the business world, fine arts and other enriching enterprises can bring several businesses together around a common cause or interest.
   
   
8. Continuing education classes: Students and instructors can offer a supportive network for career building. Talk with professors about the kinds of jobs related to the class they teach. Interact with students and ask about their career plans.
   
   
9. Groups designed for networking: One of the primary purposes of your local chamber of commerce and other community groups is to help you meet business leaders. Take advantage of their services.
   
   
10. Your place of work: Building a better network centers around developing authentic relationships with colleagues and supervisors. Strive to get away from your desk and meet people across departmental lines. Talk with them about their frustrations on the job and what they love about their work.
    
    

October 29, 2002