A True Connection: Networking Isn't All About You

John Sullivan is a working project manager who writes and speaks on project and career issues.

  PM Network  

Job hunting has always been tough— but it hasn’t been this tough in a long time. The huge volume of people looking for project management positions is putting a renewed focus on networking. Desperate for help, many people read about the benefits of networking and immediately set out to make contacts, assuming the more, the merrier.

Thousands of people are bombarding the employed with requests for favors, asking for introductions and the names of hiring managers. Yet in doing so, they often end up alienating their real connections instead of building a true network.

You can’t just go charging in demanding favors. Networking must be done tactfully, which can be particularly challenging for new graduates and career changers. Lacking targeted contacts and relevant experience, they need to request an audience with those already in the field who are either hiring or know someone who is.

The natural approach

Kim Prater, PMP, is trying to make the jump from finance to defense contracting project management.

“From a career standpoint, it’s time to switch industries because I want a career and not just a job,” she says.

Yet Ms. Prater realizes that to get something, you must first give something. Finding a natural segue to make your pitch is far more civil—and more effective—than rushing at someone with a swift …

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