By Elizabeth Wright

Networking is probably the most useful and effective self-marketing tool available, and yet often it is underrated, inappropriately used or even underused.

Whether you’re the CEO of a large corporation, a politician, the Avon lady, or a crew member, you’ll hear it again and again: It’s not what you know (though, of course, that’s important, too), but who you know.

There is an art to networking. Certainly, the more you can get yourself out and about, the better; but do it appropriately. There is absolutely no point in hanging out day after day (or night after night) at the same watering hole where you meet the same people and have the same conversations. Those are not the people who can give you a job. In fact, it is highly unlikely that you’ll ever meet a prospective boss in such an environment.

One of the hazards of networking at this level is that you will often get bad advice that could lead you to leaving a good boat and captain (for more money) for a boat you know nothing about. And the more people you talk to, the more opinions you’ll get. Stick to speaking to a handful of knowledgeable and trustworthy members of the yachting community.

However, do take opportunity of any marine-related events – boat shows, seminars, crew parties/dinners – to get out there and pass out your credentials. It may seem tedious and unnecessary to attend similar events or visit the same agencies time after time, but remember, this is a fast-paced industry. People and yachts change from any given location at any given time.

Stay focused. The key to an ideal networking situation is to spend a short amount of time at an event shaking hands, meeting new people and, above all, listening. You never know what you’re going to hear that could be useful to you in your job search. Then leave. Never overstay or you’ll end up talking to the same people or getting drunk and then doing or saying something you might regret. None of those are sensible moves if your ultimate objective is to find a job. If you make one or two useful contacts in an evening, you’ve done well.

Follow up. Let the people you meet hear from you. Tell them something about yourself – nothing too personal – just that you’re professional, courteous and keen to work. It’s important to express strong social and business ethics while marketing yourself, whether it’s with a crew placement agency, on a dock, or anywhere you can be seen. Even if the captain or agent doesn’t need anyone now, they will. And when they do, you want them to think of you first.

Make sure, too, that you’ve signed up with a handful of reputable, long-standing crew agencies. They need to know you’re out there so check in often because, even if you’re not currently available, they may have a position that is better suited for your needs whether monetarily, geographically or a step up the ladder. Always be pleasant, well dressed and keen, leaving people with a good flavor.

Finally, a word about walking the docks: It is harder to do this in the States because many marinas are locked for security and privacy reasons; and many shipyards will not allow you in unless you have proof that you are working on a boat. But whether here or in Europe, as long as you do not become a nuisance and remain respectful when approaching the boats, many crew are able to secure work, whether for a day job or permanent position.

Elizabeth Wright is a crew placement agent with Camper & Nicholsons in Ft. Lauderdale. Contact her at +1-954-524-4250 or crew@ftl.cnyachts.com.