Networking Is In The Eye Of The Beholder

Some see networking as a chore. Others see it as a waste of time. A huge mass of social blather that leads to nothing. Those people get frustrated and get stuck in their job search.

They haven't yet figured out that networking is now a lifelong opportunity. An opportunity to build out your influence in the world. And to reach more people that might need your help at the same time.

For those who see socializing, I see relationship building. Research. To understand what your network needs from you.

And its not about job search anymore. Although that is how most of us will gain immediate benefit. It is about building a significant team around you that knows enough and cares enough about you to step in when asked to throw you a line.

So I say that networking is in the eye of the beholder.

Open your eyes.

If you truly see networking only as a means to an end. That end being a job. You may get frustrated. Because building a network that cares takes time and a sincere effort on your part.

And since everybody feels a little bit like you do, they will hold back. Not give to you. Until they see some consistency in what they are getting.

Results from networking are not dropped in your lap. They are picked from a tree like a soft peach. Ripened from the sun and the water and the nutrients in the soil. Over time.

Ever eat a peach too soon?

If you are just getting started in job search and have heard that you need to be networking, that's correct. But building a long term network takes some time. Because your effort pays off over time.

Of course there are exceptions to this. There are those who will give to you from day one. And you should be awfully thankful when you meet these people. And you should immediately begin to find ways to give back.

Everybody has something to give.

So my challenge to you today is to change your view of networking. From short term to long term. It will allow you to think through how you communicate with others and what you ask for this time around.

It will give you a perspective that others thinking "today and tomorrow" won't likely have. And it will motivate you to stay involved in local job clubs and networking groups well beyond the day when you get the call that says:

"We'd like to make you an offer." (And the air leaves you).

Because this isn't just a network you are building. It is a set of friendships. Founded during challenging times. And with the opportunity to be built during better ones.

How do you see it?