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Networking entails establishing a network of contacts who could conceivably help you in the development of your career - or put another way - it is the exchanging of information and resources and ideas in such a way that builds relationships. Talk to everyone you know. Tell them you are looking for a job. Let them know what kind of work you have done in the past and what you would like to do in the future. This information gives them a clear picture of what you are looking for, and they just might know of someone who could help.
Networking seems like a lot of work, so you might wonder if it's worth the effort. In a word, yes. Networking is the single most powerful tool in the career changer's toolbox. It is the opportunity for you and the other person to establish and maintain a connection and open up new possibilities for your future. The more you network, the more you create a community of professionals who will serve as referrals for you. Some studies show that as many as 60% of individuals find a job through an informal network of family, friends or colleagues. The bottom line is that who you know may be more important than what you know.
Unfortunately for many, networking doesn't come naturally. Most people think networking is just calling up saying "hello," but when executed properly, networking efforts have a distinct agenda and the networker initiating the contact takes responsibility for directing the discussion. Again, it's up to you to let people know what you want and how you are qualified.
Most people think about networking when they are out of a job, desperately want to leave a job, or suspect they are about to be cut loose. But, ideally networking should be on-going process. Follow these strategies:
First, keep your network informed of what is going on in your career.
Second, periodically take stock of your network.
Finally, don't expect instant gratification from networking.
Networking is the key to success in today's job market. Set goals for yourself -- even if you establish only 3 new contacts each week, and get 3 more from each of those individuals, before long you will have a wealth of networking and contact information leading you successfully to your next position.
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