Networking: What you never learned in school

A person who worked in a former organization with me sent me a message requesting a reference. I never worked with this person. We attended a couple of meetings together. I retired from the organization 8 years ago!!!!  This person has a HUGE problem and I am not dealing with her!

Most folks do not have a clue on how to create professional relationships to build their networks. If someone has to request a reference from a retiree that they barely know.... that is a problem. Hence, I am providing 6 key points for networking.... What you never leaned in school!

1. Networking starts in high school!  Students need to perform well, be respectful of teachers and get involved in extra-curricular activities.  You got to stand out in a positive way.

2. Go to church!  Be active in volunteer organizations. Adults non-profit organizations  have the potential to write future reference letters. Remember to go to church!!! Clergy are respected!!!!  Pastors are great for writing references.

3. Your paternity / sorority is YOUR network.  You decided to close yourself off from others by joining this clique.  So, make sure you know folks!  THESE people are the ones to write your references!!

4. In college, senior year professors are ideal for references.  College professors in the last year should be writing reference letters!  But, make sure you have been worthy.  Every course has an end of session evaluation for students to give feedback.  If students have opted to NOT write good comments on me or opt to not write any comments.... I will NOT write a reference letter.

5.  Co-workers in the workplace.  This is tricky. Most co-workers cannot be trusted. Just remember, if you write a reference for a co-worker, make sure that it will be mutual. Get their contact information. If your co-workers are functionally illiterate, don't expect them to return the favor.  I'm just saying.

6. Serve as a volunteer for professional associations.  This is ideal for building a network as an adult.  Serving in office, active membership and having a positive presence is what networking is all about.

If at some point in life you have to request a letter of reference from a retiree that you barely knew, you screwed up royaly!