Networking is simply the process of getting to know people who can help you in your job search. Meeting people in your field gives you the opportunity to learn from them and them from you. Learning from actual professionals in your field is one of the best benefits of networking!
Is finding a job about who you know or what you know? It’s both. Employment success will come from your knowledge, skill and experience. But before you can prove what you know, you have to get your foot in the door. Very often, this connection to a potential employer can happen with a little help from a third party. That’s what we call networking.
Eighty percent of available jobs are never advertised. A total of about 52 percent of people get their jobs through ads, direct contact with companies, employment agencies, college career services, or search firms. The other 48 percent of job-seekers obtain their jobs through referrals from people they know – in other words, through networking with friends, colleagues, acquaintances, and former co-workers.
Make a list of the names of persons that you know and the key people that your friends know who may be able to help you in your job search. Consider these types of people:
- Previous co-workers or people from other companies with whom you associated
- Professionals you’ve hired: accountants, attorneys, bankers
- Family, friends and neighbors
- Friends from your church, mosque or synagogue, fellow club members, and clergy
Take time to call or meet with people in your network. If you have not contacted them for a while, it is time to reconnect with them. Make it a point to stay in touch. Think of how you can help each other. If you are only looking to receive help, you will struggle with making network connections. Networking is not about making cold calls or calling everyone you know, asking them if they know of any job openings. The key to networking is becoming more social.
Attend events that will allow you to meet business professionals. These events are organized by business owners, trade associations, Chambers of Commerce and other business groups. Some Department of Labor locations regularly schedule networking sessions for executives.
You can also join a professional organization in your industry. Many members are eager to help job seekers and often know employers with open positions. First, check to see if there is a fee.
Have networking business cards and copies of your resume with you at all times. You may consider creating a personal business card with your name and contact information, including your email address and job interest. It can be a mini-resume of sorts.
Like it or not, online social networking has become an integral part of the job search process. You can network online through chat rooms, social networking websites, discussion boards, blogs, and Twitter.
Consider creating a profile on LinkedIn and Facebook. They allow users to join professional groups, giving you a chance to communicate with others in your field. Keep your profile professional. Potential employers may read your information. Read more on our page for Job Search Process – Social Media and Job Searching.