Anyone looking for a job must be willing to network. But making connections is even more critical if you’re planning a career change. For one, networking allows you to acquire valuable advice from people outside your field of expertise. It also helps you meet other career changers who can provide knowledge, inspiration and networking tips. Plus, reaching out to people outside your current sphere of influence builds confidence, which is essential for professional success.
Networking isn’t about asking people for help when you need a job. It’s about forging and nurturing authentic relationships over time. Let’s review seven networking tips to set you up for a successful career change.
Networking Tip #1: Set Specific Networking Goals
Before scrolling through your contacts, start with specific objectives. Set purposeful goals by reflecting on what you want to achieve.
Ask yourself questions to spark ideas:
- Am I looking for mentors?
- Am I looking for job prospects?
- Do I want to build a referral network?
- Do I want to research the profession?
- Do I want to practice my elevator pitch?
Creating a detailed plan will help you focus and prioritize what’s most important to you.
Networking Tip #2: Leverage Your Existing Network
Leverage your existing connections before searching outside your network. In other words, put the word out! This approach also allows you to practice explaining why you’re exploring a new path. You never know who might have a connection within the organizations or industries you’re considering. There might even be people in your current network who made career changes that can provide encouragement and networking tips.
Networking Tip #3: Practice Your Transition Statement
Your transition statement explains in detail the reasons for your career change. You’ll also want to include additional information:
- Your new goals
- Why this work is a great fit for you
- What motivated you to make a change
- How your current experience is transferrable
- What skills you have acquired to make you more marketable
Think of this as your elevator pitch. Be sure to keep it relevant and succinct. The more you practice your transition statement, the easier it will be to deliver.
Networking Tip #4: Find Inspirational Role Models
One of the most exhilarating parts of networking when changing careers is meeting people who have succeeded. LinkedIn is a handy tool for finding connections because you can filter by job title, company, location and even groups. When you find relevant contacts, you can view their career progression, which can be insightful. Once you have a list of potential mentors, set up short 15-minute informational interviews. Ask them targeted questions:
- What inspired you to make a career change?
- What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
- What courses and training did you find helpful?
- Can you suggest anyone else I should speak with?
- Do you have any networking tips for someone switching careers?
At the end of your meeting, thank them for their time. Then, send a thank you note and set up a calendar reminder to follow up in the future. That way, you build a meaningful connection and stay top of mind.
Networking Tip #5: Revamp Your Personal Brand
When embarking on a career change, it’s important to repackage yourself to show how your current skills and experience are transferrable. Start by auditing your current brand. Then, ask yourself who your target audience is and what sets you apart from others in your field. By developing a unique value proposition, you differentiate yourself from the competition. Finally, start positioning yourself as an expert in your new field. You can build authority in several ways:
- Start a blog
- Publish articles
- Write a book
- Schedule podcast appearances
- Speak at industry events
When it comes to your personal brand, authenticity and consistency are crucial. Building it takes time, but a methodical approach will ensure you elevate your personal and professional profile.
Networking Tip #6: Join Professional Groups And Organizations
Another networking tip for career changers is to connect with people through organizations. One example is your alum group. Join your university’s alum association and find out how often they gather. You might even be able to meet interesting contacts by volunteering or joining a committee. Another way to grow your network is through professional associations, where you can introduce yourself to industry experts. Consider opportunities to speak at conferences to develop your personal and professional brand. All of these in-person and online events should be a chance to practice your transition statement. The more you refine it, the more natural it will sound.
Networking Tip #7: Remember, Networking Is A Two-way Street
Effective networking is always a two-way relationship. Provide value to your contacts by regularly forwarding interesting news and articles. Consider creating your own content to share valuable information while building your credibility. When you’re having a one-on-one conversation, don’t just talk about yourself and your needs. Learn about the person you’re speaking with and what matters to them. Successful networkers are active listeners and interested in learning about others. Additionally, find ways to be of service and offer to introduce people in your network to each other. By supporting your network, they will want to support you.
There are many benefits of networking when changing careers. As long as you practice patience and persistence, you’ll accumulate strategic connections that will lead to a career you love.