Sometimes the thought of networking can fill you with dread. It can feel unnatural, but in reality through your whole career, you will have honed your networking skills without even realising. Think of all the people you have met over the years, during training courses, different drafts, deployments; connecting with people from all walks of life in diverse environments, not many people can say that. So how do you network successfully? This month we are looking at the do’s and don’t’s of networking and how you can forge some great connections online and through networking events.
Don’t
- Talk about yourself
When networking, whether that be through online or face-to-face events, make sure you talk only about yourself, your achievements and how great you are. Do not let the other person speak.
- Give unsolicited advice
You’re an expert in everything so make sure you give your own advice to everyone you meet, whether they ask for it or not.
- Use networking events as a free buffet
You’re there for the food right? Make sure you pile your plate high!
- Be aggressive with your follow-ups
Never-mind being ‘persistent but not pushy’. Be pushy! Make sure any contact you have made through networking, you message or email constantly, even if they don’t reply. They won’t forget you!
- Let the truth get in the way of a good story
Embellish. Hey, even lie a bit about your experience on your LinkedIn profile and when in person, it makes you look better. When in doubt – just exaggerate. Employers won’t ask for evidence to back anything up…
Do
- Use your military network
Veterans are always keen to help other ex-military people out so it is important to utilise this network. Reach out to former colleagues, connect with people on LinkedIn, that work in your target industry, join groups and connect with people you meet at events. Remember that other veterans have been in your shoes, so they can be the source of invaluable advice and guidance. They can also introduce you to others who can help – just don’t be afraid to ask!
- Utilise your social media – especially LinkedIn
Networking online has become an important way to create a valuable network, engage with employers, connect with other veterans and land yourself a job; all from the comfort of your own home.
- Maximise your LinkedIn presence
LinkedIn is a fantastic way to expand your network, connect with like-minded people, employers and search for opportunities. It is also a great way for employers to find you. So make sure your profile is professional and it showcases your skills and experience. Make sure you are active on the network, join groups (the Gen Dit Network is great), make new – and old connections with former ex-military friends, and be active in discussions that interest you. LinkedIn is an invaluable resource so make sure you use it!
- Attend virtual events and webinars
Some employers regularly hold online virtual job fairs, webinars or networking events and can be a great way to create valuable connections, without having to travel! Keep an eye out on the social media of employers you are interested in, connect them to see when their next event will be and when you do attend, ask questions, be engaged, make people remember you – for the right reasons!
- Utilise other social media platforms
Although other social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram aren’t specifically for professional networking this isn’t to say that you can’t use them to reach out to others. We’d advise setting up a ‘professional account’ if you do want to use it for networking; especially if you’d rather keep your tagged photos hidden from future employers! Don’t overlook social media groups. There is a vast variety of groups out there to help you to connect with like-minded people and working professionals. Some groups are set up solely to exchange knowledge and tips on specific industry topics, while others will be more community-based. It is worth doing your research and finding the right ones for you.
- Attend job fairs, webinars, networking and resettlement events
Ex-military jobs fairs organised by the CTP and BFRS can be a good place to start your networking journey. Many businesses run insight days for ex-military personnel, both face-to-face and virtually. These resettlement events are another great way to network and find out not just about job opportunities but graduate schemes too.
- Prepare your ‘elevator’ pitch
Think of this as a brief introduction – a synopsis of your background and experience that shouldn’t last any longer than a few minutes or the duration of an elevator ride! This can be something you have practised for face-to-face meetings or a brief introductory paragraph about who you are that you use when making a new connection online. Yes, it can seem awkward but it’s worth doing.
- Follow up – and be organised!
Once a connection has been made, make sure you send a follow up email/message on LinkedIn. Try to follow up with them regularly (persistent; not pushy!), or at least engage with them on social media if no opportunities have come your way yet – a contact you made a year ago could happen to have an opportunity for you down the line. On that note – you must know who you have contacted so you don’t end up contacting the wrong person or forgetting who where you met them. Jot down when you meet them, the outcome, and when they are due an update or chasing up to ensure you stay on top of things.
For more top tips and blog posts to help you on your transition journey, read The Saluting Post.
