- The Cyber Initiative
- Posts
- TCI #004: Unlock Your Career Potential: Networking Strategies That Work
TCI #004: Unlock Your Career Potential: Networking Strategies That Work
David Elgut
June 10, 2023
Tip for the week: It’s not about what you know, it’s more about who you know.
Read Time: 1 minute
I have a little secret to share with you: traditional job searching can be a frustrating experience - yes, I know that this isn’t a secret, but more of an epidemic.
The endless applications, the waiting game, and the feeling of being lost in a sea of resumes—it can really take a toll. But here's the good news: there's a new sheriff in town, and its name is networking. There is truly so much to understand about this topic, so I decided to touch on it again this week.
I wanted to tell you about an experience that changed the game for me when it came to networking.
During my college years, I had the incredible opportunity to connect with some of the top executives in the US government. Sounds intimidating, right? Well, it was at first, but I quickly realized that confidence, politeness, and a sense of belonging were the keys to open doors I never thought possible.
One particular event that stands out in my memory was an engagement with top executives at the FBI. Picture this: a room filled with high-ranking officials, everyone gathered around a wood table, discussing important matters. As I glanced around, I noticed an empty seat at the table—an opportunity that beckoned me. Without a second thought, I mustered up all my courage and decided to claim that seat.
I engaged in conversations with those around me, sharing my perspectives and listening intently to others. I approached the situation with confidence, as if I belonged in that room.
Little did I know, this bold move would lead to the forging of crucial relationships and the finding of a mentor in one of the country's top agents, Adam S. Lee. Our bond has stood the test of time, and we continue to support each other to this day.
⭐️ Now, let's talk about how you can apply these lessons in your own life:
Be confident: Trust in your abilities and the value you bring to the table. Believe in yourself and approach networking opportunities with a positive mindset. Remember, you have something unique to offer.
Be polite: Treat others with respect and professionalism. Take the time to listen actively and show genuine interest in the people you meet. Networking is about building authentic relationships, and that starts with being kind and courteous.
Act like you belong: Embrace a sense of belonging and confidence in professional settings. Don't be afraid to take a seat at the table—both literally and metaphorically. Seize opportunities to connect with influential individuals and contribute your thoughts and ideas.
Networking is more than just collecting business cards or sending connection requests on social media. It's about forming meaningful connections and leveraging them for your career growth. So, the next time you find yourself in a networking situation, remember the power of confidence, politeness, and embracing a sense of belonging.
That's all for this week.
Stay tuned for more insights and practical tips on navigating the professional world and get one step closer to breaking into cybersecurity.
P.S. If there are any specific topics or questions that you would like me to address in the newsletter, please feel free to reply to this email. I will be more than happy to add them to my list of upcoming topics.
Whenever you're ready, there are 2 ways I can help you:
Feeling stuck and lost and need help understanding your why?
→ 1:1 Tailored Mentoring Calls: receive personalized guidance and expert accountability towards building a successful career in tech, including proven tips and strategies for resume/CV review, LinkedIn optimization, and breaking into cybersecurity.
Looking for labs to build your skills? These free labs I wrote are great resume boosters!