Networking is the #1 most effective job search strategy. Networking is building professional relationships to tap, share, and exchange information and ideas about:
- Career Opportunities
- Industry Trends
- Practice Methods
- Possible Connections
Networking benefits both you and the other individual. Through networking, you discover the hidden job market opportunities. Networking is not a one time contact with an individual – the relationship is maintained, nurtured, and sustained. Explore networking below:
The networking introduction and connection:
• Your name
• Your value
• Your help with who
• And with what
• And how you do it
• Your results – quantify it
• And how you connect to a next step…
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Everywhere…
• Meet new people
• Join new groups and professional associations
• Join the alumni association
• Connect and re-connect with long lasting relationships
• Communicate with your connections your goals and next steps
• Be approachable – likable – genuine
• Get over the fear
• Stop procrastinating and enjoy connecting with others
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Initiate the interview to learn – not to request a job. You ask the questions. Informational interviewing helps you:
• Clarify your career plans
• Learn about an industry
• Explore a typical day in a specific work setting
• Enquire about the individual’s professional journey and helpful hints
• Expand your professional network.
Informational interviewing is not about asking for a job. Sample questions include:
1. What duties or tasks do you perform most days? On a weekly basis? On a monthly basis?
2. What majors are sought for the position?
3. What skills are sought or required for the position?
4. What are the trends in the industry? What are the “buzzwords” or “keywords”?
5. What certifications or licensures are required or preferred in the field?
6. What three personal characteristics portray a successful employee in the field?
For further information, please see the resource section below.
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Develop a professional social media presence through LinkedIn – the World’s Largest Professional Network.
• Complete your profile.
• Click on the “More” tab and enter the “Learning Center” to optimize your use of this network.
• Request and Make connections.
• Request recommendations by your current professors or supervisors
• Join groups and participate in the dialogue on the discussion boards.
• Learn about companies and the connections within companies.
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Follow-up is integral in establishing a lasting relationship. After a meeting, conference, or event, follow-up with the individual. You can follow-up by:
• E-mail
• Telephone
• Mail
• Request a LinkedIn connection
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