Networking

Networking is a system of building support for your career search. Why networking? Seven of ten jobs are found through networking! Although many people scan the newspapers and mailings, four times as many jobs are found through networking efforts! Networking builds a support group acting as a resource for feedback on cover letters, resumes and with activities of your job search. Your support group also serves as a source for referral to potential employers. They may know of other possible positions available through their contacts.

How networking expands your market:

Networking sources can tell you what companies you may be able to contact
Networking sources can introduce you to other contacts
Networking sources can give you advice or guidance on your job search

How to Begin Networking
Tips on Calling Networking Sources

How to Begin Networking

Begin your networking by preparing a list of your friends and other social aquaintances including members of all fraternal, alumni, civic or religious organizations to which you belong.
Prepare another list of business associates, customers, former employers, suppliers, employees and any other business contacts or acquaintances.
Indicate after each name on your list their position, if known, their telephone number and the above category into which the person falls.
Remember, networking is not making a list of people you know that have job openings, but instead, a list of people that you can ask for advice or additional contacts. This will lead to job openings. Most people we know are willing to give this kind of information. The first list should contain a minimum of 75-100 names, the second a minimum of 150 names (if you only have a few years of work experience and contacts, your list may be shorter). Obtain, without exception, their address and telephone number. From the foregoing list, select 15 business contacts and busienss friends whom you wish to use as personal references. Use 5 references for one list and 5 on another. This will help you avoid overworking your references.
Once you compile your lists of business and social acquaintences, begin contacting each of your sources by telephone. Although a telephone call seems easy, the impression you make over the telephone may determine whether you secure a face-to-face meeting.

Tips on Calling Networking Sources

Introduce yourself by clearly stating your name and reason for calling as seeking resources in your job search.
Be positive.
Have a clear understanding of questions. Plan to ask for potential contacts, realizing the need for brevity. Writing a script will allow you to be more prepared.
Have paper and pen ready for writing names and telephone numbers of referrals and any notes.
Record the contact date, person's name, and address (for mailings).
Send a note of thanks for their time and any referrals they can think of later.