Trying to Start Networking in Tech? You Are Not Alone
I wanted to do something different today. I usually write about some new technique or technology shortcut I learned to share with fellow newbies. Today, I wanted to go over some recommendations and things to avoid as you begin to try and get your foot in the door. I will add, I am no expert on this topic but I feel like I can give a pretty accurate view on the actual process.
If you are reading this before you begin your journey into networking, you probably are a mix of excited and terrified. I’m sure we can all say that is pretty normal for most people. I was speaking to a friend from Europe recently who is just beginning the job hunt. I think she summarized it best when she said “Back home, you are judged on your CV (resumé) but it seems in the US, you have to meet the right person to get hired.” I don’t think she is wrong to think that. My school hammered home that over eighty percent of positions are filled through word of mouth/networking. That shouldn’t discourage anyone from putting out applications. What that says to me is submitting resumés aren’t enough to guarantee you anything. If you aren’t sure where to start, LinkedIn is a great resource. They can give a lot of good insight into who’s hiring and if you have any connections to people at that organization. This isn’t groundbreaking, I am sure that most people have thought about using it or are actively using it. What is important is making sure you grow your list of networks with your friends, family and former colleagues. This is how you will be able to grow your reach and be able to reach out to those connections you’d like to make. It can be scary and nervy but the logic I’ve held with has been that I may need help now, but that doesn’t mean I will always have my hand out. I look forward to the day where I can be an asset for someone else who is trying to get their foot in the door. Another helpful pointer is talking to close friends and family to see if they may know someone who could point you in the right direction. Not every interaction is going to lead to a job, thats okay. The more meetings you take, the more you will discover what you are looking for.
Getting discouraged will happen. It is part of the process. I have put a lot of time and energy into some applications, only for them to not respond. That initial disappointment has subsided and my outlook has changed. If a company doesn’t email you back, that is a good indication that they might be the right fit for you as well. You may also find yourself applying for a position only to be told that you are under-qualified. Another bummer but that is a great example to take the meeting and learn how you have to grow if that is the place you’d like to end up. A lot of these companies are like sports teams. They want the best and many don’t have the budget to groom you. If you keep honing your skills, someone will see you as a diamond in the rough and give you a shot. I have wrote previously about how going through a program doesn’t guarantee you anything. The major part about landing a position is finding ways to separate yourself from the pack. That could be through intensive practice to get better than everyone else, it could also be how far you can climb out of your comfort zone and network with as many people as possible.
The last piece of advice I will leave y’all with would be to access technology to help you network. Checking out sites like Eventbrite, powertofly or the other dozens of companies that offer career fairs or meet and greets would be super helpful. Try to go to virtual happy hours (even if you don’t drink). It is a great way to casually meet people in the field and you can engage a little bit more relaxed to find connection that is right for you. I hope that this helps a few of y’all or at least makes some not feel alone.
