Networking for Work

By Jennifer Murray, The Nimble Assistant

That’s what we’re doing. Some of us, out there schmoozing, socializing, buying groceries or office supplies are looking for work. The difference between work seekers is the nature of job we are looking for – employment or customers.

Is there really that much difference between employment and customers? Perhaps not in the acquiring but certainly in the delivery. A huge portion of the population is looking for employment – to work for someone else. They are seeking job satisfaction, benefits, co-workers, a computer, and maybe a Christmas party.

Entrepreneurs are looking for employment – to work for themselves. They are seeking job satisfaction (on their own terms), benefits (flexibility and direct reward), partners (instead of co-workers), the equipment they want, and they’ll go to many Christmas parties. The process is essentially the same though. Both people need to get out there, meet people, talk about what they have to offer, understand customer/employer uniqueness, assess where and how they can help and if it’s a match between skill, product, and need. We’re in business for a job for that matter.

Once you have the job though, it’s pretty simple. You go to work; you go home; you get paid. Yes, I realize sometimes the balance between the three goes askew and there are people who work their tails off and don’t get paid equivocally. That’s another issue. The entrepreneur however, gets the job, acknowledges the job (hopefully with a little note), performs the task, thanks the customer, asks for feedback and a referral then spends time assessing the process and does the paperwork. Oh, and guess what? You’ll need to go job hunting again tomorrow!

And so we should. How will we ever keep up with market trends, social changes and environmental issues by solely sitting at the computer or being fed information? Get out there and get it yourself. There is valuable information within networking that we can all take back to our jobs (bosses and clients alike). Keep networking; you need to see how well you’ll fit into your next job.

Jennifer Murray, proprietor of The Nimble Assistant, determines efficiencies for small businesses and simply gets the job done in her role as a virtual assistant. Her energy, enthusiasm, flexibility, and focus have lightened the load for many managers and entrepreneurs. Growing a small business requires a team where each member does what he or she does best. Jennifer creates an opportunity for small businesses to grow their business while supporting their existing business. She can be reached at jennifer@thenimbleassistant.com.