Thursday, September 15, 2011

4 Ways To Get The Most Out Of Your Network

How many times do you hear the phrase ‘It is not about what you know, but who you know.’ A few people take that phrase to heart when they are jobless, seeking out everyone and anyone. In the mean time, most of the unemployed sector ends up scouring online for jobs for hours at a time, and usually have their resumes thrown on the bottom of a pile. It is time for you to take charge of your job search and follow these four networking tips.

1) You Know More People Than You Think
Just contacting your immediate connections isn’t good enough if you are truly serious about finding the right job. Neighbors, old friends from high school and college, your church, the gym, your sibling’s best friends, even your old friendly landlord. Everyone needs to be taken into consideration. Facebook and LinkedIn can be used as tools to organize a list. Even if these people aren’t directly in your desired field, more often than not, they will know of someone who may be able to help you out. Don’t be embarrassed to reach out either. Most people like helping out and giving advice; it makes them feel important.

2) Get Your References In Check
Never ever use a friend as a reference. Employers will laugh at your feeble attempt to get a person to say something good about you. A professional reference should be someone who enjoys your personality but can also vouch on your resume, abilities and track record. Explain to them your current situation, your new goals and ask them for their support. Many times these references are the ones who end up finding you a gig. It is your responsibility to keep them informed on any potential interviews and/or phone calls they may receive. Even if you go on an interview and don’t land the job, still thank your references.

3) The Fun Part: Reaching Out
After you have organized and compiled your list, it is time to start putting your network into action. Before contacting anyone you need to set clear goals as to what kind of job you are looking for. And also don’t rush into your ‘job need’ with a contact. Take the adequate time whether it is in person or over email to do the proper catching up. Once you start networking never utter the phrase “Let me know if you hear of anything.” That is too generic of a request and people in your network will forget about you. Tell the said person that you are looking for a position, be detailed on the kind of job you want and finally ask them if they know anyone in your chosen field.

4) Maintain These Relationships
Your brother’s old co-worker may now be one of your top job networkers if you say the right things to him. Now the trick is to keep him thinking about how he can help you. You don’t want your contacts to feel ambushed by your requests, so ask them for insight at first. Most times that exchange can lead to much more on your behalf. Don’t be a hit-and-run networker either. Even if you don’t get what you want from a contact at this current time, check back with them a few months later. It is worth the shot. Finally, be genuine; meaning just be yourself. Pursue a job you want. If you hide the true person you are, you could find yourself unemployed much longer than you anticipated.

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