Difference Between A Connection And Networking

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The difference between a connection and networking is that in order to get someone to help you out in the job market, you must make a connection with them and become friends with them, and not just simply “network.” Networking is vital to your job search, no matter what field you work in. Having a strong social network of people you know that work in all different jobs, companies, and fields will get you further than a diploma, a great resume, or amazing grades. You will have to impress people, be liked, and then you will be the person that they choose to hire, or give that promotion to, or entrust with a project, etc. Maintaining your connections with individual people and cultivating a relationship and possibly a friendship is what will get you the furthest.

Many people think that in order to make connections they just have to go to social gatherings and hand out their business cards. However, that is not so. You must be truly interested in getting to know people, because people can always tell and they appreciate you much more if you are there to make friends and just meet people rather than robotically ‘network.’

Think about the game, the “six degrees of Kevin Bacon.” During that game, you are supposed to be able to connect any actor to Kevin Bacon in six connections or less. Networking for business is a lot like that. Keep going out and meeting people and you will find people who will be able to put you in touch with anyone in any business or field in the world.

Many students are now beginning to understand the difference between a connection and networking as well. There are now programs geared towards setting students up with mentors who are professionals in the field. The students go to work with their mentor, learning in a real life setting and making those ultra-important connections. Students who go through those programs wind up being very successful later on.

Knowing and applying the difference between a connection and networking can be the difference between some entry-level job and the job of your dreams. All it takes is practice and you will be able to network like a pro in order to get yourself wherever you want to go. Meet people of all types, who work doing different things, who know lots of people, and they will be able to introduce you to someone who can help you get the job you want.