Go Forth and Network

ONE STEP UP By Chris Tio (The Freeman) Updated July 24, 2009 12:00 AM

I get a lot of feedback from readers thru email and most recently, thru Facebook. I really appreciate it when readers take the effort to communicate and share their reactions with me. It helps to know what people are thinking and what their opinions are. It helps me to also define the direction of this column to best suit the reader’s needs. Thank you for that.

I get surprised sometimes by the wide variety of feedback as well as the different professions and backgrounds of those that do. I have one particular reader that stands out. She works for the Government. Lillian is connected with the Bureau of Internal Revenue. She wrote me once to tell me that she follows my column. Lillian also wrote to ask if she could share her own thoughts and insights based on her readings, which could also help other readers out.

Recently, Lillian sent me an email on the importance of networking in finding a job and for promoting business. I would like to reprint what she sent me, as it is very helpful especially for young people looking for their first job. Here are the Lillian’s tips:

“First, Circulate. Talk to people. Be where when you can meet a lot of people. Attend conventions, seminars, meetings which are related to your work. Introduce yourself to many people. But it doesn’t mean that you will talk and mingle only with people in your line of work. Mingle with others, too. You will meet these helpful persons everywhere--- the beach, at the park, in the church, in the supermarket. The point is to be acquainted with lots of people. New acquaintances that you meet can open golden chances for you.

Second, Send a letter to the manager of the firm you are interested in. Make the letters as irresistible as possible. So you will not be denied the appointment you greatly desire and express admiration for the person you are writing to.

Another clever idea is to stay in touch with people you know. Let them know you are still around and eager to make the line of communication open. When you are on vacation, send them card and notes. When someone gives you a favor, send a thank-you note immediately. These gestures will not be forgotten. Don’t ever disregard that small, nice touch. It is central to your success.

You may also request referrals. Referrals play a vital role in one’s career. Through three referrals, the networking widens, which leads to more contacts. Remember, no man is an island, you need other people, to survive and succeed.

You may also join organizations where you are sure to meet lots of people. Give calling cards with your address and phone numbers and state your line of work.

Get rid of your shyness. Build up that self-confidence, fast. Sometimes, you fail in an endeavor due to a feeling of insecurity. Instead of going directly to a prospective client, you back out due to feeling of inadequacy, to handle that situation. Smart women know that timidity has no place in effective networking.”

Lillian concludes by writing, “ Networking is reciprocal . You do things for others and they also do good things for you. And there is no such things as useless contact. Even if real benefits are not yet apparent, something will crop up sooner or later. Take good care of all your contacts, everyday of your life, add more to the network, especially if you are looking for a good job. Many people get their jobs through this networking, a powerful strategy to reach your goals and dreams.”

Thank you Lillian for caring enough to share with us your thoughts. A lot of us are familiar with the saying, “Its who you know that makes a difference.” That alone shows the value of networking. I want to share what Bob Burg added to that, he thoughtfully said, “It isn't just what you know, and it isn't just who you know. It's actually who you know, who knows you, and what you do for a living.”

Let’s follow the examples of these ordinary individuals as they strive to make a difference. Each week, lets all get together and share knowledge, stories, experiences, information, all for the sole purpose of getting One Step Up.

For comments, suggestions or stories that you want to share, email me at stirspecialist@gmail.com, or visit www.stirspecialist.blogspot.com