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3 Tips to Grow Your Network in 5 Minutes

Filed Under (careers, college, millennials, networking) by Nicole on 27-02-2009

Tags: careers, college, millennials, networking

A year and half ago when I came to college I didn’t know anybody on a professional level. Now I’m building a professional network; relationships with people who I would go the extra mile for (and hopefully they would do the same for me). Most college students who want to start networking don’t know where to begin, but it’s not rocket science. On the most basic level it’s easy; you just have to be willing to put effort into the small things.

With recruiters or just meeting someone new, the simplest way to stay connected is the follow-up email. This seems way too simple, right? Maybe that’s why nobody seems to do it. I try to follow up after meeting with someone, whether it’s the first time or the 100th. Immediately. Every time. The key is keeping it simple.

1) Say thank you, you’ll never go wrong. If someone went out of their way for you, send a handwritten note as well as the email. It doesn’t take that long and it shows that you understand that his/her time is valuable. This is a powerful message to send, especially since Millennials get a bad rap for acting entitled. Set yourself apart from the stereotype

2) It’s not about you. You have to make it about the other person. Obviously if you’re looking for an internship or job, those are priorities when you’re networking, but don’t be that person who continually asks for favors. Build the relationship and find ways YOU can do something for him/her. The tables will turn some day, you just have to have faith!

3) Consistency and persistence are key. I send my thank you immediately. Every time. It might feel ridiculous sending a follow up every time you meet someone, but people notice and they appreciate it. Keep it clear and concise. Messages don’t have to be long or drawn out, just thoughtful.

At the end of the day, it boils down to common courtesy. If you shoot an email to someone after you meet it will speak volumes about your initiative. And it literally took five minutes.

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How to Achieve Continual Success

Filed Under (careers, how to, millennials) by Nicole on 29-12-2008

Tags: careers, millennials

It’s simple advice, really. Most of us want to find success in our careers. The definition of “success” differs from person to person, but we all have goals in mind. Our level of effort can drive success and is important to get from Point A to Point B, but how is it possible to create a career that grows constantly?

Obviously our effort must be maintained, and Seth Godin puts this best, explaining how we create our own “luck.” The essential element to continual success builds off effort: never get comfortable. Whatever effort you’re currently giving, it’s critical to ask yourself, “What next?” Building your career requires constant assessment and evolution. It makes sense; to keep your career moving, you have to keep moving!

So if you spend time reading, networking, blogging, studying, or in general creating the career you want, you’re already well on your way with effort. Now is the time to ask yourself that simple question “What next?” and start finding ways to evolve.

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People Love the Sound of Their Own Name

Filed Under (millennials, networking) by Nicole on 07-11-2008

Tags: millennials, networking

It’s common knowledge that connecting with people is critical to attaining goals. Connecting within an organization is a key element to leadership success as John C. Maxwell so wisely advises in his “21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership.” From my experience though, creating the connection without seeing “what’s in it for me” becomes a roadblock for students and professionals alike.

Oddly enough, that mentality is backwards and hinders the relationship-building. It’s easy enough to talk about yourself, but establishing a real connection is a two-way street. Most of us have people we love to be around not only because they’re our friends, but because of their genuine interest. It goes back to what my Dad always told me growing up – people love the sound of their own name – it’s simple to remember and is entirely true. If you’re genuinely interested, ask questions, and maybe even remember their name, they are more likely to be interested in what you have to say. This is the pillar many miss in the concept: Make it a conversation, not a monologue.

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