Building a network from scratch can be done.
As I’ve said before, teachers tend to really only know other teachers. So how can you make meaningful connections?
To start, you need to self reflect.
You need to know (or have a very strong inkling):
– what is a good fit for you,
– your skills,
– the industry you want to work in,
– the company type, size, and product/service/solution they offer,
– the name of the job/role you want.
Having more than one option to explore and pursue is okay, but if you aren’t hyper focused on what you want, getting an offer in this economy will be tough. Spend the time putting in the self discovery work.
What then? Do a Google search!
Use the job, industry, company, and solution, etc. to do a Google search for a thought leadership or professional development group.
Search for related, specific communities. All the information you need to start an informed search is there- so Google those terms in different combinations. Click some links. Refine your search. Better yet? Click some Sponsored returns too. You’ll learn more.
You will always get paid returns/Sponsored (unless your search is unbelievably obscure) and it’s awesome if this happens because you may not care about buying anything, BUT, most companies are now trying to associate themselves with thought leaders, professional groups, and creating communities for their customers to share ideas and support one another. Usually on their website there will be some sort of “tie” to this group. Check the Company page, client/customer stories page, or the blog page. It makes the searching much easier for you.
Once you have the name of an organization you can vet for fit on your own (Google the organization, find their LinkedIn page, see who are members).
Some of these groups will be paid membership, but even they have a fair amount of non-member opportunities or information available. I suggest checking out everything that is non-paid first. Officially joining is up to you. If you’re unsure, save your money until you are.
Seeing who is a member is who you connect with on LinkedIn. Always customize the note in the connection. Say you’re a member too and something you’re looking forward to learning more about. Keep it light.
Then participate in the discussions: make posts and comments (not unlike you do on reddit). If you really like the information a person shared, connect with them and put that in the note. Thank them for their insight and teaching you something!
Attend in person and virtual events. The more you engage the more you’ll be a part of the group and everyone will be more receptive to you asking for help or if they know of an open role.
It takes time, so start now while you’re still in the classroom!
Nervous and want a free practice run? Find me on LI and send me a connection request with a note. Getting the first one out of the way may be the confidence boost you need.
I can also help guide you to some professional groups if you’re not having luck in your search.
