By Alexis Vasquez, Communication Council President  

Navigating the professional world can be intimidating, especially when it comes to networking. For us, the landscape is more complex than ever, with both  in-person and virtual interactions playing critical roles in career development. Not to mention, wondering if you are putting too many exclamation points in your outreach emails and messages. (I feel like you could never have too many!!!!!)  

Let’s dive into the realities of networking and building your professional network. I chatted with Jeff Eisemann, a senior recruiter at Q2 Software, to delve into the nitty-gritty of effective networking.  

Why Networking Matters  

Eisemann emphasized the importance of  networking right from the start of your career.   

“Networking is something that’s going to follow you your entire career, whether you like it or not,” he said. While hard work and passion are crucial, knowing the right people can open doors that might otherwise  remain closed. It’s not just about who you know, but how you leverage those connections. The more  connections the merrier. Also, having the 500+  connections on LinkedIn is somewhat a flex, so connect, connect, connect!

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them  

One major pitfall Eisemann pointed out is the lack of authenticity.   

“Not being authentic with how you approach the  person you’re trying to network with can be a  significant barrier,” Eisemann said. “It’s essential to  approach networking with a genuine interest in building relationships, not just advancing your career.” Remember, the individual you message on LinkedIn or email is human too!   

Ask how their week is going. Is it hot or cold in their area? A small “I hope you are enjoying this warm weather” can go a long way. It shows that you didn’t just copy and paste.  

Another common mistake is targeting only the top-tier industry leaders. Eisemann suggests diversifying your network to include peers and professionals from  different sectors.   

“You never know when you’re going to make an industry jump,” he noted, highlighting the importance of a broad and varied network.  

In Our “Building Meaningful Connections” Era  

So, how do you build these connections? Be  authentic and have a reason behind your outreach.  

“You don’t want to put on a face of just trying to be friendly with somebody,”  Eisemann said. “If your end goal is to leverage your relationship, be upfront about it.” This honesty will foster more meaningful and productive relationships. 

Standing Out in a Digital World  

In the age of LinkedIn DMs and virtual coffee chats, standing out can be challenging. Eisemann said that generic messages like “I’m interested in Q2, let me know if you have any roles” often fall flat. Instead, take the time to personalize your outreach. Reference  something specific about their work or clearly state how your background aligns with their needs. This  approach shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested. So, in other words, do your LinkedIn stalking! Don’t be scared of the “so and so viewed your profile” notification!  

Handling Rejections and Ghosting  

Networking, like many aspects of life, comes with its share of rejections. Don’t take it personally.   

“Understand that being ghosted is part of it. It happens a lot more often than I would care to admit,” he said.   

The key is persistence. Reevaluate your approach and try again, but don’t let a lack of response discourage you. Often, the individuals you are reaching out to may not be as active on LinkedIn and won’t see your  message until a while later. Which, let’s be honest, once we notice we do that, we wonder if we should respond. This delay isn’t necessarily a sign of disinterest;  sometimes it’s just a matter of timing. 

For the Anxious Networker (I am literally just a girl)  

Not everyone finds networking easy, and that’s okay. Feeling anxious about networking is normal. The  solution is to start small. “It’s easier to have a  conversation with somebody when you are comfortable  with the subject you’re talking about,” he said.  Authenticity and gradual exposure will build  confidence over time.  

Also, if you are nervous or anxious about something, it means you really care!  

Maintaining Connections Over Time  

Building a network is just the first step; maintaining it is equally important. Eisemann recommends setting up a regular cadence for follow-ups: “You have to nurture those relationships and make sure it’s a  two-way street.” Regular, genuine check-ins can keep your connections strong and enduring.  

Networking can seem overwhelming, but by being authentic, doing your research and maintaining your connections, you can build a robust professional network. It’s not just about making connections but nurturing them with genuine interest and consistent effort. So take that first step, reach out and remember: every connection is a potential opportunity. Let’s get networking!