Ashley writes:
I have read a lot about the potential of networking for people who are looking for a new job.
One of my goals for this year is to expand my network because I want to consider finding a new job later in the year, but I really have no idea how to do it. I mean, I think I understand the concept of networking, but I just don’t know who to do it with, or how to find them. Can you help?
The Career Doctor responds:
Don’t be too hard on yourself. I think networking is probably one of the most misunderstood concepts of job-hunting, which is bad because it is also one of the most important.
Because the vast majority of job openings are never advertised, job-seekers need to have a network of contacts — a career network — that can provide support, information, and job leads.
So what is networking? Networking is simply connecting with people — establishing some sort of rapport so that they will remember who you are. Networking can happen anywhere, from business to social events and from in-person to online events.
Yes, there are some events labeled specifically as networking events, but any situation where you are interacting with people can become a networking event. And you just never know who you are going to meet at that wedding, chamber meeting, or airport. You can even build your network online, as there are quite a few networking Websites.
So, set a goal for yourself in the number of people you want to add to your network each week. Develop a plan. Remember that people in your network will not necessarily get you the job, but because they know other people, the chances that someone in your network knows someone who is looking to hire a person just like you are strong.
Finally, remember, networking is a two-way street. Once you become part of a network, you should work to make sure that you are not always asking folks in your network for favors — that you are returning them as well.
For more on networking, check out this section of Quintessential Careers: The Art of Career and Job-Search Networking.
