Coffee and a chat?

I’m a huge proponent of networking, it’s easy and frankly it works. Unfortunately, most people don’t really do much networking. Well, here is my biggest tip on how to get the networking going and going well....

Grab a coffee with someone....doesn’t matter who just do it. Taking the time to sit down over a beverage (drinks work too....), chat casually about work/life issues and have a good time. Networking should not be a huge ordeal, it should be fun and worth the time. Networking is not like dating, there should be no pressure and everyone realizes this is all about work and helping each other accomplish their professional goals.

Personally, I’m always up for a coffee. I rarely turn down the chance to do a little networking and enjoy a latte...so, here’s the question. Are you actively networking? You should be, especially as the economy recovers in 2011 you may just find that opportunity of your dreams.

Keep in touch

I tell a lot of people who I interview to keep in touch because you never know what the future will bring. Ironically, I never hear back from about 99% of them...fair enough, I’m sure you hear this same line a thousand times during the job search.

However, I’ve noticed something lately.....this advice works and frankly it works pretty well. Here’s how it works:

1) Things change and you actually get a job - Shocking right? Well, looking through my database I realized that this happens quite a bit. One of my favorite new colleagues is someone who we didn't’ hire a few years ago...things changed, projects launched an voila he’s now a great fit for the team. This made me think back over my career and it’s happened quite a bit.

2) Build your network - Keeping in touch with people is the only way to build your network. So, dropping a call to that friendly recruiter or hiring manager may not lead to an immediate role but will build up your professional network...which will eventually pay dividends.

3) Referrals! - Didn’t think of this one did you? That’s right, keeping in touch with people keeps you in the front of their mind and when someone they know has a need....they’ll think of you.

Quick post, but I really wanted to share how important I think this is to do. People say “keep in touch” all the time but no one ever does........trust me, build this into your daily routine and you’ll find yourself with an improved network and just maybe a great new job too.