Networking: An Important Part of your Job Search Networking is known as the #1 way to get a new job, because most available jobs go unadvertised.
Networking is about reaching out to and informing the people around you of your availability for job opportunities.Networking is not about having people hand you a job, it is about collecting information and letting others know you are looking for that job opportunity. | A lot of employers would much rather talk to someone who is recommended because it saves time and money.Receiving a strong referral from someone they trust saves the employers a lot of effort in advertising the position and sorting through resumes. | |
How to Network Successfully (4 Key Points) ![]() |
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Point #1: Getting Over the Fear First practice with people you know well, who may have information or leads that can assist you in your job search. These people can be:
This process isn’t about “selling” yourself. It is about knowing what your strengths are and having the confidence to modestly express your strengths and qualifications to others around you. Then, when you are somewhat comfortable with the networking process, move onto cold calling those connections that may be able to better help you gather information on your chosen industry and get that desirable job. Volunteer in an industry you are interested in or join a local organization. This is a great way to get out in the community and meet people that can be an integral part of your networking process. Point #2: Be organized / Have the right tools
Take a good look at your address book and email contacts. Make a list of people to call such as your friends, family, colleagues, former supervisors, and social contacts. Every one is an important contact in your networking circle. As you reach out to your existing contacts you should be gaining leads of new contacts to follow-up on. Keep organized, and write these leads down in your networking address book. |
Point #3: Making the First Call Recognize that time is of the essence. Develop a short message about your career experience and professional opportunities you may be interested in.”Use empowering words such as successful, accomplished, driven, implemented, skilled, experienced, leader and team-oriented.” (Source: smithjames.com)Things to remember:
Some sample phone scripts are available at Smith James Group, Inc. under “How Do You Network” Point #4: Follow Up on Calls Always follow-up on your contacts with a nice letter thanking him/her. For a sample letter visit “What Are Your Next Steps” at Smith James Group, Inc. |
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