Networking With HR Professionals
If you watched my tips for new hr professionals video, you might have heard me talking about the importance of networking and connecting with others. I think it’s fair to say that many people always talk about networking but I bet you’re wondering what this looks like in practice. I’m going to share a few tips.
1.
If you’re an HR professional trying to expand your network, one of the ways you can do so is by attending HR general meetings or networking events. In almost every, there is a SHRM or HR chapter full of HR professionals. Why are they there? Some of them are there to get recertification credits. Others are there for the same reason you are. To simply meet professionals alike.
a. So let’s talk about the tangibles.
i. Where can you find these events? You can use sites like eventbrite. You can also do a quick google search of local hr chapters. On those websites, they will usually share a calendar of events you can attend. Some may be paid and some may be free. Catch the free ones if you can but if you can’t, get a gauge on how much these events may cost and save to attend.
ii. When you are at these events, don’t be afraid to go and speak to people. This is where the action begins. This may look like walking up to someone and saying “ Hi, I’m Cari, do you come to these events often?” or “Hi, I’m Cari, are you familiar with the speaker for today’s topic?”
A few additional conversation starters may be:
- Hi, I’m Cari, is this seat taken? Do you mind if I sit here”
- Wow, today’s session was so informative, what part did you find insightful?
- It was great meeting you today…. Do you mind if I connect with you on LinkedIn?
Okay, so let’s recap, find the event, go to the event, use the examples I shared previously to start the conversation.
After you’ve connected with the person on LinkedIn. Follow up, Follow Up, Follow Up.
Send a note, it can sound something like “ Hey….. great meeting you at today’s event. Are you planning to attend the next event? Or Hello….. Great meeting you at yesterday’s event and becoming apart of my network. Are there any other organizations that you are aware of that offer events like the one from yesterday? As I am looking to expand my network, I’d love to attend more events.
2.
No upcoming events? Not to worry, leverage LinkedIn. You can do this a few ways:
a. Look for people who are in roles that you are interested in. Unless you want to be a recruiter, this is not the recruiter at the company you want to work for. Also, remember, networking is not about landing your next role.
Important note: Many people don’t start networking until they are looking for a role or a role is open at their ideal company. This comes across as disingenuous. Don’t do this. Also… imagine how many others are doing this to the person you may be reaching out to.
Person in the role you’re interested in:
● “ Hi Cari, I have aspirations of being an HR manager one day, will you share more with me about your career journey?”
● Hi Cari, I am currently considering taking a class to learn more about the Business Partner role. Have you ever taken a similar course along your career journey?
● Hi Cari, I am new to HR and looking to expand my network. HR Dallas is hosting a networking mixer and I was wondering if you’re planning to attend. I’d love to learn more about you in person.
● Hi Cari…. I really appreciated your post on XYZ. I’d love to connect and learn more about how you’ve applied this concept in your career.
Notice that in each of the examples, you are not asking for anything. Not a job, not a referral… not a anything. This is important and if you do this, before you need a job, you will find yourself feeling less panicked about it.
Also, let me just give you a fair warning. Some people will respond and others will not. Don’t take offense to this. Be sure you are not relying on one person to be a resource for you.
3.
Another way to network is to look for groups. These could be HR groups on Facebook or HR groups on LinkedIn. These folks are in these groups for the same reason you might be interested in joining them. However, it’s not enough to just get into the groups. You have to engage.
a. Engaging looks, liking and responding to posts. Sending private messages like the one I mentioned before or even posting your own questions. Many folks are afraid to answer questions out of fear that they will get it wrong, but what you can do is post questions. Think of some of your most burning HR related questions and pose them to the group.
You might notice that these networking tips are not exclusive to the HR community. They are universal tips that can help no matter what industry you are in.
Hello!
Is this the first time we’ve met? If so, I’m Cari Hawthorne and I love helping HR professionals accelerate their careers.