by Michele Day
In today’s, fast paced technological world, it is not enough for Landmen to have in-depth knowledge of contracts, oil and
gas, engineering, geology, hydrology, mining, land use, and information retrieval, just to name a few of the numerous tasks of the everyday landman. To gain an edge in the industry, landmen need to stay up-to-date on networking which will leverage them in their field and to stay connected. Companies would rather hire someone they know or are familiar with rather than someone they have no previous knowledge. This report shows practical ways to gain new contacts and maintain contacts needed to succeed in your field. Our goal for landmen is to succeed in all areas needed to be a leader.
Networking today is not the same as it was 10, 20 or even 30 years ago. People used to stay connected by picking up the phone and having a half hour conversation or by attending a show to meet the right connections. Although, these are still valid practices when necessary, people rarely have time for long conversations or many times, a person is long forgotten after even an in-depth conversation at a NAPE show. People are meeting so many people, it is important to stay memorable and easily accessible. A landman’s name, strengths, and successes can stay forefront to companies and individuals by utilizing technology and social media.
Many times social media is not utilized due to a resistant to change. Throughout generations, communication with family, friends, and business contacts has evolved. Prior to the invention of the telephone, it was mail delivered by horseback, and the telegraph was used to communicate important messages across the country. We have since moved from the rotary phone to one with push buttons, then the wonderful invention of the cordless phone. Later, only a few business people had mobile phones when they first surfaced and later the cell phones became the rage with a sleek design. Today, nearly everyone including my 5-year neighbor has a cell phone.
Technology continues to rapidly change with a variety of social media platforms. To some people, social media appears to be merely a “fad”, and the question rises as to “why participate if it may fade away”. It is better to take advantage of connecting with other landmen and people in the industry instead of ignoring latest social media forms which helps to build business recognition for future jobs and important plays in the oil industry. Each form of social communication continues to evolve to various platforms and the benefits have statistically shown to outweigh the negatives.
It is not too late for any landman to learn how to utilize social media to their advantage. Following are some of the top social media sites, according to “eBizMBA.com”:
- Facebook with an estimate of 900 million visitors a month.
- Twitter with an estimate of 310 million visitors a month.
- LinkedIn with an estimate of 255 million visitors a month.
- Pinterest with an estimate of 250 million visitors a month.
- GooglePlus+ with an estimate of 120 million visitors a month.
- Tumblr with an estimated 110 million visitors a month.
- Instagram with an estimated 100 million visitors a month.
If a landman is new to social media or even if a landman has been involved in social networking for a while, it is advantageous to post pertinent information that will give a superior business image and give the credibility as being a leader in the field.
- Network – Aside from gaining experience, networking will be the greatest ally in getting started as a landman. Making contacts can be difficult, especially if you don’t know anyone in the industry. It is important that you use everyone you can as a resource. Often times using the “friend of a friend” strategy is very effective in making contacts. Landmen themselves are excellent networkers, so it is no surprise that to become one you need to start networking even before you get the job. Keep in mind that companies would much rather hire someone they are familiar with as opposed to a stranger.
- Join industry organizations – Joining industry organizations like the AAPL are a great way to stay connected in the landman industry. In addition to the AAPL, regional and local organizations exist. These organizations are a great way to start networking, and can often be joined by all types of land professional.
- Get AAPL certified – In addition to being a great, all-around landman resource, the AAPL is the official certifying entity for the landman industry. Some states are now requiring landmen to become certified in order practice. In any case, becoming certified is a must in furthering your career as an oil and gas landman. There are several levels of certification and a serious landman strives for the highest level of certification possible for a successful career.
