Quote:
Originally Posted by onewhippedpuppy
But HOW, damn it? How do I get started doing anything of value?
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Building a network of people you know and trust is a lifelong project. It can't be just related to when you need something. Using email and LinkedIn, I've stayed in contact with people that I liked from several careers ago. I've not seen them in years, but ping them every 4 to 6 months just to say hi and stay in touch.
Once you have that network, as gastrochimp points out, you can use the extended network (friends of friends of friends) to get a direct introduction. Here's an example: I once saw a job posted that I knew I'd like, but based on my resume would not get past the recruiter's screen. So I found the name of the recruiter, found that one of my contacts knew him, and asked for a direct introduction. I was able to talk to the recruiter and arrange for a meeting. Without LinkedIn, this would not have been possible (and no, I didn't get the job, but that's related the the hiring company, not the introduction).
Remember, networking is two-way. You have contacts and relationships that might be valuable to others. Don't refer willy-nilly, but be as generous with your network as you would like others to be with theirs when you need help.