Networking - what is it?

The term "networking" is often tossed around, but what is it? I don't mean computer networks; I mean the networking that can occur person-to-person.

Networking is connecting people with people. If you know a good lawyer (sorry for this example) and you know someone in need of a good lawyer, then you might tell the person-in-need to contact the lawyer. Or let's say that you are looking for a job; you connect with someone you know and ask his/her help in identifying a prospective employer. You are networking.

There are jobs open today. But it's a "hidden" job market. Most companies are not advertising their open positions in the Northwest Herald. Why not?

Because they will get hundreds (or thousands) of resumes in the mail. And then they'll have to pay an employee to open all the envelopes, smooth out all the cover letters and resumes, and start making stacks. And then they'll have to pay another more highly-skilled employee to go through the stacks and make the first cut. 95% will go in the recycle barrel. How can you make sure you are in the 5% that doesn't?

"Information interviewing" is another term that is useful to know. Let's say you are looking for a job. Resume in hand, you go to see someone you know (or someone you don't). What's your opening line? "I'm not here to ask you for a job." And you aren't. You are there to discuss your resume and qualifications, and to ask whom he knows who might be interested in talking with you. Or you might have already identified that "someone", but need someone to introduce you. Do you know the "Six Degrees" concept?

Networking can be the marketplace where those who need come together with those who want. Everyone has "needs" and "wants". I might have something to offer, such as handyman services (I don't! (but I know someone who does)) or an old 19" color TV that works; maybe I'll meet someone who needs handyman services or who wants the old TV. (http://www.freecycle.org/ works really well for getting rid of old, working TVs)

The Woodstock Groundhog Club is set up to provide you with networking opportunities. The Club meets on Fridays from 5:00-7:00PM. Initial meetings will be on the Woodstock Square, but there is no reason not to branch out to Crystal Lake, McHenry, Marengo, Harvard. And it's free! Visit http://www.woodstockgroundhogclub.info/ or send an e-mail to WdkGroundhogClub@aol.com for the location of the next Friday's gathering.

Bring business cards, fliers, brochures and friends, co-workers and/or customers. We'll be at a bar (you don't have to drink alcohol) or a restaurant. Your only cost is whatever you drink or eat.