Networking Using Your Contacts

In today's competitive and sophisticated job market, you must be aggressive, innovative, visible and relentless

In a recent study by Harvard University, it was established that well over 50% of positions were secured through networking. Have you stayed in contact with your former bosses from years ago, former co-workers, neighbors, your accountant or banker? Individuals like these are your prime source for finding employment. The list is endless. Yes, jobs are plentiful today, but are you seeking just a job, or a fulfilling career?

Any place where people gather is a golden opportunity
Do you know that bankers, real estate brokers and building superintendents know who is expanding and who is moving into your town or city? Trade association meetings and membership lists are chock full of prime candidates for your calls. Go to an association luncheon or dinner and watch the cards being passed around. Your house of worship, civic and community groups are excellent sources for contacts.

What do you really think is happening? Most of them are networking!

Informational interviews - the well-kept secret
Informational interviews with recruiters and human resource professionals can start a whole new chain of contacts. Call company recruiters and tell them you are evaluating opportunities with similar companies in the their locale and would like to get information about their organization. Request a brief meeting to discuss the company's plans and goals. Remember, you're not asking for a job interview, but for information about job opportunities that may arise within the organization or other companies with whom they're familiar.

Use all your contacts to develop leads
Follow up leads and make sure you leave a trail of thank you notes and thank you calls. Let people know you appreciate their efforts. When you call again in a month, they won't mind hearing from you.

Be organized. Keep records
Make sure you know the direct source of each lead and even the sources that led you to that source. Leave no stone unturned and no kindness unthanked.

Dedicate time for networking - it's worth it
Devote at least 20 hours a week to networking if you are unemployed. Every lead becomes dozens of leads and every lead is one step closer to success. Don't abandon traditional methods of job hunting (recruiters, advertisements, direct mail and all other means), but give networking the time and attention it deserves.

There is no mystique
It's just plain hard work and perseverance. Every one you talk to, every one you meet... they are your targets. It's incredible what people know about job opportunities that you would never have imagined. Your hairdresser/barber talks to everyone from company clerks to presidents. You are not your accountant's or attorney's only client, etc.

Let people know. Give them a chance to help. You will be absolutely amazed at the results.

Multiply your job search efforts with networking!
Contact Marty - He'll show you how...