8 good tips for Networking
In Denmark, it is said that a large percentage of jobs are never listed and usually filled through networking. Networking is about building relationships and connections in a meaningful and organised way through first level contacts (people you know well), second level contacts (people you know less well) and third level contacts (people you do not know yet).
Networking is an excellent, comprehensive way to broaden your thinking horizon, get new ideas, new projects to work on, new information about job leads, companies, and acquire knowledge about new markets/sectors that you had not ever thought of. People you connect with over networking, often help you solve problems, identify new market opportunities and provide you with inspiration.
Whether you are considering to expanding your professional network, looking for your next job, or changing career paths, networking can provide you with valuable information and insights at every stage of your job search process.
If you are a PhD Student you can join the Ph.D. association at the university of Copenhagen (UCAPS).
The Dual Career ~ Spouse Network present partners and networks that may also expand your career opportunities. You can also join networking groups for young researchers in one of the Danish unions.
Take some time and define what you are looking for in your network and within which sector or industry. Every once and awhile you will stumble across someone amazing on accident, but it is a lot easier to find who you are looking for if you know who they are in the first place. Be proactive and create a list of people/companies/organisations etc. that you want to contact or industries and sectors you are interested in. Remember that LinkedIn is a great tool for this purpose!
LinkedIn is the leading global online professional directory of individuals and companies with millions of members worldwide. Use LinkedIn proactively and get new connections and information. One has got the opportunity to create personalized job feeds, follow companies and professional groups etc. Are you a specialist or do you have a certain area of interest? Nonetheless, you can use this platform to promote yourself professionally, your area of expertise, share your accomplishments with your connections or even acquire new skills by attending LinkedIn’s free training workshops on various topics.
When networking and delivering your elevator pitch, the goal is to be short, concise and to entice the receiver to want to know more about you professionally and personally. The length of your elevator pitch can vary, but you typically want to be able to present your pitch comfortably without rushing in 30 seconds or less. Remember a great way to get information is to ask open-ended questions. They immediately prompt a conversation, because an open-ended question cannot be answered with a one-word answer like “yes” or “no". Try googling elevator pitch and opened-ended questions. You will be surprised by the information and suggestions, you will get that can give you new ideas on how you can elevate your performance, when networking.
Yes, email is quick, simple, and can be sent to anyone, anywhere. However, an email is also very easy to filter out and ignore. If you really want to meet someone, then do not be afraid to pick up the phone, propose a video/zoom/skype/teams chat, or arrange a face-to-face meeting. These communication channels are usually less crowded and more personal, which means that your message will be more memorable. Email can be a great tool, but do not be afraid to mix it up.
It is often said that networking is where the conversation begins, not ends. If you have had a great exchange of information, ask your conversation partner the best way to stay in touch. Some people like email or phone; others prefer social networks like LinkedIn. One or two days after meeting someone for the first time, follow up with a brief email or note. This is an opportunity to develop the relationship by bringing up a topic that you discussed before or making a comment on an interesting topic. Following up with relevant conversation helps to anchor your previous interaction in their mind and displays more personality than just sending a message that says, “Thanks for talking!”
Everyone is busy. For most people, it is simply a matter of timing. If you catch them on a good day, then they will happily talk or meet with you. If they are swamped, however, then a simple “No” might be all that you get. Do not take it to heart or personally. In most cases, it is not a reflection of you or what you said! Remember a “no” is not always a “no”, but can be a “maybe”, or a small “yes”!
The University of Copenhagen initiated the International Dual Career Network (IDCN) in Copenhagen 2016, where partners of international employees have access to company networks and events in the Copenhagen area. The activities of IDCN are focused around career events and webinars hosted by volunteering professionals, corporate members representing sectors within higher education, life science, biotech, shipping, finance, engineering, consumer products and consulting. IDCN is a great way to expand your professional and social network. This platform also provides the opportunity to volunteer and network with human resources professionals and corporate representatives through career events and workshops. For more information click on this link.
Even though the Danes have a reputation for being reserved with strangers, they are good at organized and professional networking. Danes are famous for their “foreningsliv” (being a member of voluntary organizations, sports clubs, associations etc.). The easiest way to meet a Dane is through a sports club, parents association in school, or via an organized networking event. Do not underestimate the power of informal networks!