Career Networking And Its Place In Your Job Hunt
	The Benefits Of Online Networking
	The Facts About Networking
	Why Networking Is A Most Effective Tool

Career networking should be an ongoing part of your professional routine. If it is not already, the good news is you can always start! Networking, when done correctly, creates a relationship of mutual support. It is a positive relationship for both parties. When done incorrectly, it leads to one party feeling used and can leave you with a bad name.

When networking, keep a few tips in mind to maintain the positive relationship that you are seeking.

Network with Many People

Too often people limit their options when networking. It is easy to think that the corporate vice president that you know is a much better contact than the office manager. However, all types of people have all types of contacts. You never know who may have some "inside" information. If you discount people simply because of their titles, you do yourself and them a disservice. It is often the person whom you think will not have information who has the inside link to a job opportunity.

Stay in Contact

Even if you land your ideal position, stay in contact with your network members. For one, this demonstrates that you are interested in the relationship, and not simply using them for information when you need it. Secondly, you never know when you may be unexpectedly laid off or facing another unforeseen situation leading to a job search. Finally, this keeps you available to them. You need to provide information and help to your contacts just as you hope they do the same for you.

Be Prepared

When in the midst of a job search or other situation where you need the help of your network, be prepared. Someone may offer assistance, and you need to be able to articulate clearly what you do, what you need, and what you're looking for. Also be sure to keep an updated resume on file for unexpected situations.

Be Courteous

Always treat your network contacts with respect and professionalism. If you know that someone is facing a difficult personal situation, for example, do not call and ask that person for a job lead or inside tip. Also be sure to offer as much help to your contacts as you possibly can. If you do not maintain a mutual relationship, you defeat the purpose of networking. You also give it a bad name, which makes it difficult for others to network.

Follow Up

If you get a job, promotion, or other benefit from a tip from a network contact, be sure to let him or her know! Most people like to know when they're help has resulted in a positive outcome. People also like to feel appreciated, and taking the time to thank your contacts for their information is the polite and respectful thing to do.

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The Benefits Of Online Networking

So, you know that networking may be the key to finding the right job for you. But where do you start? If you live in small city or do not have the access to conferences and industry meetings that other people in your field have, you may feel like your list of contacts is limited. How can you expand your list of people if you don't meet anyone? Well, that is where the Internet can be a great advantage. Today, there are endless resources online for networking. You can find organizations for any industry and in any part of the world. If you want a group for your area, you will most likely find one. If you want a group for your specialty, just search for one and get involved. There are numerous advantages to online networking:

You do not have to go look for help. From the comfort of your keyboard, you can find all the help and advice you need. You will meet people online who have a variety of experience and expertise. In your job search, these people will be invaluable resources. Get involved in a group that shares your specialty and start putting the word out online that you are looking for a position. You will be surprised at the results that show up.

You get you name out there. There are companies that will search online networking groups for potential employees rather than posting job searches. If you belong to one of these groups and get your name out there in cyberspace, someone looking for just your qualifications can find you.

You can remain anonymous if you choose. You may not wish for everyone to know your personal information. By joining an online networking group, you can control who gets your contact information.

You have access to broader resources. When you network online, you instantly have access to the knowledge of people far beyond your sphere of influence. This can be a great advantage, as these people may have access to information that you would not normally receive.

Overall, joining an online networking group is a great way to get feedback, support, and best of all, job leads.

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The Facts About Networking

You hear it talked about, you see it advertised, and you know that somehow, networking should play a part in your job search. But what is it exactly and how can it benefit you? Networking is really very simple, though it may take on complex configurations. The basic idea is meeting people, talking to them, and learning from them. As you move through your job search, you may find that there are some fields that do not advertise job openings as often as others. You may find that some people always seem to be in the know. This is where networking comes in.

If you are having trouble finding a job using online searches, newspaper advertisements, or headhunting organizations, you may be overlooking a very important tool. Networking is actually the most frequent means of finding a job. Most people hear about openings through word of mouth rather than a job posting. This means that you have to get out there and talk to people. You have to have a conversation with people who know about your industry and the movement among it. You can't hear word of mouth comments if you are glued to your computer alone.

The first step in networking is developing a list of contacts. You know a lot more people than you think you do. Think of all the folks you have met through school, social functions, and other jobs. You may not have become friends with them all, but if you were given an introduction, you know them. Make a list of your family, friends, and neighbours first and then expand outward from there. Ask them who they know in your industry or who they know that could give you some advice on your job search. They may be able to introduce you to someone new to add to your list.

Contact the people on your list and let them know that you are in the job market, what you are looking for, and that you respect their opinion. See if they can refer you to anyone. You never know who has valuable information about an opening that is not yet advertised.

Also talk to co-workers and other colleagues in your field. See if they have any advice or knowledge of other firms. Check with former bosses and even teachers that you had in school. And of course, talk to people you meet at trade shows, job fairs, and conferences. These people are active in the industry circles and will have access to a wealth of information and contacts.

The important thing about networking is that you continue to expand your list. Keep it organized and set goals for yourself so that you continue to add to it. With an increasing network of contacts, you are sure to make the right one that will lead to the perfect job.

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Why Networking Is A Most Effective Tool

Networking is about forming quality relationships with people that can open doors to job opportunities. It is about developing connections within the industry that may lead to further connections. Developing a network of connections is an effective way to increase your job potential and create new opportunities. You will widen your circle of resources and be able to expand your industry knowledge.

Personal referrals often translate into to job opportunities. When your looking to make a change or searching for a job let people know. Use family connections as well as friends and business associates. Your primary network will consist of these people and you want them to pass on the information to their primary network. This way if something comes up they will be able to help you to connect with the appropriate person. You can also make use of people within your industry or within the company. Let them know what you are looking for so it an opportunity arises they can refer you.

Before you ask a networking contact for a referral spend sometime thinking about how you want to present yourself. The more concise you are about what you can do, what you have done and what your interested in, the easier it is for people to keep an eye out for you. You can ask contacts to pass on your resume to employers for future opportunities.

Networking is effective because it allows you to connect with the employer via a referral rather than a cold call. Instead of being one of a number of applicants there is a personal connection. Already you have the opportunity to stand out from the competition.

A very small percentage of jobs are actually listed in the classifieds or online. Most positions are filled through referrals, company contacts or recruitment agencies. So whether you are looking to move up in the company or find a new job your network, connections are vital. Networking can be done anytime, anywhere. Take the time to talk to people at job fairs, business and social gatherings and in online networking communities. Expand your networks by putting yourself out there and connecting with people. You never know whom you might meet and strike up a conversation with that could influence your career path.

When you are networking for a new job make sure your prepared when the opportunity arises. Keep your resume up to date and carry business cards with you at all times. When you exchange information with a contact follow up with a thank you note or phone call. This will give you an opportunity to further develop the relationship. You can gain valuable information through your network connections just by listening to their experiences and advise.

Networking is a powerful tool that can give you the competitive edge you need in today's job search market. Having that personal connection with a potential employer will give the opportunity to show them why they should hire you. Many applicants don't get that opportunity so make the most of it when you do. After an interview follow up with a thank you letter and phone call so that even if you don't get the job you may just make a network connection.

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