Network Everywhere

By Michelle Ioannou

Network, verb, to “interact with other people to exchange information and develop contacts, especially to further one’s career.” (Thanks, Google!). You’ve heard the word countless times. You get the e-mails from your career-services department about networking events happening at your college. You go to as many of these formal networking events as you can, hoping that the hiring manager from one of the companies will fall in love with you and hire you on the spot. That’s all great, but why stop there? Nowhere in the definition does it say that networking needs to be confined to these pre-planned arrangements. Network everywhere.

I’m one of those people who talks to everyone. I always have been, and I always will be. My mother jokes that as a baby I would happily go off with anyone who gave me attention (and yes, that usually still applies). Now that I’m older and like to think of myself as wiser, I’ve learned to use this personality trait as an advantage and network everywhere I go with anyone new I may meet. If I just met you, within ten minutes of talking to me I guarantee you’ll know what I do, what my passions are, and what my career goal is. Dates? No, they’re networking dinners. Dating apps? You mean networking apps. Every activity that involves being social can be seen as a networking event. Why’s that? It’s simple. You never know who knows someone working at your dream company. Here’s just a quick glimpse at some ways everyday things you’re doing can be a networking opportunity:

Tinder & Hinge: Yup not only “dating” apps, but networking apps as well. Think about it, you’re getting a chance to speak with people you would not have originally spoken with otherwise. Most people brag about their jobs in their bios, whereas other people see it as a great conversation starter. Use this opportunity to not only hopefully find a nice young man or woman, but to also make known your career goals. Additionally, promote yourself on these apps. Promote why you should be working in the industry you want to be working in. You bet I have the handles to my Twitter and Instagram in my profiles. The more people that follow me, the more people in my network. (And yes, I’m waiting for the day a Mets executive swipes right to me on Tinder, sees my Twitter account, and hires me).

Social Media: It’s right there in the title, be social. Take the risk; make your Twitter and Instagram public. Follow people who are working in the industry and companies you’re interested in. Tweet at them. Instagram photos from corresponding events. Take part in conversations. Regardless of your industry, I’m sure there’s an associated hashtag that you can use while tweeting to attract attention. Social Media’s a great way to talk about what you’re interested in, get noticed for it, and make connections. It’s also a great way of promoting yourself (sound familiar?). Show that you have the knowledge and passion for the industry you want to be in.
Dates: I almost always refer to dates as networking events to the point where my co-workers make fun of me about it on a daily basis. Dates are your chance to shine! You’re alone with another person who you’re just starting to get to know. Not only is talking about each other’s careers and work goals a usual part of small talk, but it’s a great way to keep the conversation going. Show your passion for what you’re doing or what you want to be doing – not only will you make your career objectives known, but your passion will shine through and win the date.

Coffee Shops: Or your train station. Or the lobby of your building. Whatever place it is you frequent every weekday before work, you’re most likely seeing the same people at the same time at the same place. Talk to them! Smile, say good morning, and talk to the person next to you! They’re most likely dreading going to work as well. Misery loves company, right? So go ahead, talk to new people.