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Survey Reveals Networking Mistakes
MENLO PARK, Calif., Apr. 22, 2003
Not asking people for help and failing to keep in touch with professional acquaintances are the top networking mistakes, according to a recent OfficeTeam survey.
Survey respondents were asked, "In your opinion, which one of the following is the biggest mistake people make when networking with professional colleagues?" Their responses:
| Not asking for help when they need it |
37% |
| Not keeping in touch with contacts |
25% |
| Not thanking people for their help |
22% |
| Burning bridges with past employers |
13% |
| Don't know/No answer |
3% |
"People often avoid asking for help for two reasons -- either they are embarrassed at needing assistance or they feel they can 'go it alone' and succeed without others' involvement," said Liz Hughes, executive director of OfficeTeam.
"In this employment market, however, every contact counts," Hughes continued. "Building your network is tantamount to building your professional marketability and visibility. Of course, asking someone to lend a hand is much easier if you've been in regular contact with that person, which underscores the importance of keeping in touch with professional acquaintances."
Hughes offered the following tips for effectively tapping into your network:
- Do the prep work. Give your contacts all of the information necessary to help you. For example, if you've asked someone to serve as a reference, provide that person with a copy of your resume, a brief description of the types of jobs you've applied for and the names of those who might be calling.
- Don't beat around the bush. Be direct rather than hinting at the help you need. Also, let your contact know how much time you anticipate the favor will take. If it's more than an hour or two, you may want to rethink the request and find a way to spread it out.
- Return the favor. Your contacts will be more motivated to help if you seek ways to assist them and are responsive to their requests.
- Say thanks. Acknowledge everyone's efforts on your behalf with a thank-you note.
2003 SmartPros Ltd. All rights reserved.
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