Networking

Networking has always been the most successful aspect of any job search. Friends and contacts will tell you about job openings and introduce you to potential employers and colleagues. Many, if not most, jobs today are never advertised to the general public. In those cases, networking may be the only way to access a particular position. Don't be alarmed. Most people's network is much larger than they ever anticipated!

Start by identifying your various networks:
Graduate and undergraduate alma maters
Professional networks
Volunteer networks
Community networks
Family networks
Personal network
Online networks

I bet you are already surprised by how many people you know! They are all possible members of your job search team.

Next, determine your strategy. This is challenging and will bring to bear all the work you have done or need to do in terms of identifying your goals. What kind of company or organization do you want to work for? What skills and talents do you want to develop? Some basic factors to consider include:

Industry, geography, function
Company size (sales, profits, employees)
Public, private, family-owned
For profit and nonprofit
Company culture
Your lifestyle goals

Once you have spent time reflecting on your career goals, you can start to narrow your target market so to speak. Create a list of possible companies and/or jobs that will fit your career goals. With your targeted list, begin to reach out to your network of contacts.

Start easy with people you know or a friend of a friend to get practice. Ask for help and referrals. It is best to be brief, be specific and be prepared. Don't call someone until you are ready to speak to them. There is no need to rush. Savour your conversations and contacts. As you meet and talk with people make sure to track all of your communication (who, when, how, what next) and follow up. It is extremely important to create realistic goals and follow an appropriate action plan. Be disciplined. Set overall goals for yourself that will help you stay on track given all that is going on in the rest of your life. For example, how many people will you reach out to, what is your timeframe, what are your goals for each interaction?

Once you have become familiar with the process, you will find yourself meeting many new, interesting people. Keep your eye on your career goals so as not to get off track, but don't lose contact with those people you meet along the way. They will continue to be part of your network. You never know when your paths may cross again and you want it to be a positive encounter!

Networking is a life long process. Enjoy and make the most of it!