The Art of Networking

"The Art of Networking" By Nikki Barnett, LMSW, '01; '03

Since 85% (roughly) of jobs are obtained through personal contact, it seems with such a high percentage, your “resume” doesn't deserve as much attention as it often gets...Rather, more time should be spent on crafting the core message you’d like to send to your network, while building and maintaining authentic relationships. 

Here are four ways to make networking work for you:

1. Know your message: Think of three words that might best describe you. Write them down.... Those three words are going to inform everything you do. Every sentence you write. Every elevator pitch you deliver.

2. Be real: In sales, there is a saying, "People do business with those they know, like and trust." Be someone who others will seek to know and like. The trust will follow when you are authentic in your relationships.

3. Give before you get: Consider ways you can help others in your network, first, before thinking what your network can do for you...

4. Participate in alumni and professional association activities: Newsletters, magazines, blogs and more… They can be a great resource to catch up and see what fellow alumni are doing in the workforce. Getting connected with a professional regional or nation association will increase your career knowledge and your chances of impressing your future network.

Nikki is a double alum from Stony Brook University, having earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology and Master of Social Work Degree (MSW), with a specialization in Student Community Development (SCD). In 2008, Nikki received her LMSW. She has been working in Career Services at the Stony Brook University's Career Center since 2007, and has worked in higher education for 10 years. Prior to this, Nikki worked in Residence Life as both an Assistant Director for College Housing (2005) and, before that, Residence Hall Director (2003) at Stony Brook. Over the years Nikki has built an expertise in career coaching and counseling.