Lesson 05: Become a Better Networker

“People we have met along the way make up our network. The question is how we relate to them,” says advisor Edgar Valdmanis. He has 35 years of experience in sales, marketing, and communication and has, among other things, written the book Networking from A to Z. “Many of the results I have achieved come from continuous networking. I have helped others and discovered that in doing so, I receive help from others, without anyone keeping track of the hours given or received,” says an enthusiastic Edgar.

There are many who do not like to talk about networking, as it feels distant to many. But there are countless examples of agreements made as a result of the conscious use of networks. “People buy from people. Trust is built the easiest between people and is an effective element in all branding,” Edgar continues, emphasizing that you should consider yourself as a brand in your career building.

“When you are applying for your next job, you need to stand out in the pile, and you must be searchable where recruiters are looking,” Edgar points out, highlighting LinkedIn as an important networking platform.

LinkedIn is by far the best networking tool available. Since networking is important in a job search process, it naturally follows that active (or rather smarter) use of LinkedIn is crucial for all job seekers. And to keep your network warm if you are already employed,” emphasizes Edgar Valdmanis, stressing that it is very easy to create a profile and start using it.

“When you start with LinkedIn, you should be prepared for it to take time, and that the devil is in the details. The upside is that this is the best networking tool,” claims Edgar Valdmanis, reminding us of the win-win effect of being active in this network. “LinkedIn can be used to help others in your network with any questions related to jobs, professions, careers, and development. If you work well with it, you will find out that you receive the same help in return. Smart use of LinkedIn can also be used to build your ‘brand’ and establish yourself as an opinion-leader within your field. Who knows where they are hiring? Who knows someone who knows someone who…? The answer is ‘someone in your network!’ That is why you build your network continuously—to have one both in sunny days and in rainy days. In sunny days, you build, and in rainy days, you have someone to lean on. Networking is crucial in career development.”

Goals

After completing this lesson, you will have gained knowledge about:

• The most important aspects of networking
• Who is a part of your network (even if you think you do not know many people)
• How to get in touch with (almost) anyone
• How to combine networking in real life and online