Networking and the Generations

Over the Fourth of July holiday I spent some time at the beach with my sister. On Sunday one of her friends joined us and they spoke of a former co-worker who left the company to take another job in June. I asked how she found the job since the national unemployment rate for June was 9.5 %. They said she found the job through a neighbor. Chalk up another job found through networking.
Recent reports show that in 60% – 80% of the time, networking results in obtaining a job. But we’ve always known that, haven’t we? How long has the phrase, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know” been around? I heard that from my parent’s when I got out of college and was looking for a first job. Back then I thought I could do it myself and that I didn’t need anything other than my knowledge, skills and well, just being me. I was wrong. When I finally found the job of my dreams, it was through someone my mother played golf with.
I was surprised that my parent’s actually asked for help for me. You see, they were born on the cusp of the Traditional Generation, those born between the years 1922 – 1945. Also called the Silent Generation, Veterans and the Greatest Generation, they didn’t believe in asking for help or for a hand-out. They believed that you kept your problems to yourself and worked things out on your own. While their children, the Baby Boomers grew up optimistic and eager to take on the world, I wonder if some of their parent’s misgivings and distrust has held them back today as they currently seek employment.
In the job search sessions I give, I have noticed that the subject of networking brings about mixed feelings among the participants. Some nod their heads knowingly while it seems to make others uncomfortable. Those who are 40 years old and younger don’t seem to have a problem with the tips and exercises we use to promote networking. I have noted others who are slightly older seem to have a harder time knowing where to begin. Maybe it is just so overwhelming to think about the neighbors, committee members, religious organization acquaintances, former school buddies, basketball team mates or whomever to reach out to.
Back to the beach conversation. The woman who got the new job is a member of Generation X. I believe that this generation along with Generation Y, believe that they are marketable business commodities and will take advantage of networking opportunities. I think it is easier because of how and when they were brought up. It’s also the message that I’m sending my own kid’s.