NETWORKING YOUR WAY TO A JOB
(c) 2008, Robin Frizzell
Networking is simple. Just like the advertisement says, it’s friends and family. But it is so much more. Your network is everyone you come in contact with. In these tough economic times, with so many people becoming unemployed, networking can give you the edge you need to find a new job. Networking is a valuable tool in your job search.
How can networking help you? This personal way of contacting people ups the odds that you will be able to find the job you want. People tend to like to help others and a mention of your name to the person or persons in charge of hiring from someone they know can vastly improve your chances of getting your foot in the door. What are some methods of networking?
One method of networking is through your friends. Ask them if you can use them as a reference when applying for new jobs. A glowing reference from a friend can go a long way to getting you that first interview. If your friend is okay with it, put his/her name on your resume as a reference. Be sure the employer has a way to contact this person. I have used this method in the past, and it has worked wonderfully for me. When the prospective employer hears good things about you, they usually want to interview you and see if you are all your reference claims you are. You’ve got your foot in the door, and the rest is up to you.
Family members can be a wonderful network for you. The first job I ever had was due to a recommendation from a family member. Family members can often help you get a job at their place of employment, or with an employer they know. Let family members know you are looking for a job and help you obtain employment.
If you belong to a committee, club, or organization, let the members know that you are looking for a job. They might know of an available job. If they do happen to know of a job that you might be interested in, ask them if they would mind mentioning your name to the person in charge of hiring. Be sure that you follow up by submitting a resume/application to the employer. If you ask someone to do this favor for you don’t make them look bad by not following through. If you do, you will lose a valuable contact for sure.
Being friendly and courteous to everyone you meet can add valuable contacts to your networking system. Speak to people in the grocery line, bank line, etc. You get the idea. Mention to these people that you are looking for a job. They just might know of the perfect job opportunity for you, and be willing to be a reference for you.
These are just a few ways of networking. With patience and perseverance you can build a powerful networking system. You may even have more ideas on how to build your network. The support of a network helping you find a job is much easier and much more productive than cold calling. Start building your network today.
