Networking to Get a New Job
Posted in Networking Tips
Studies have already concluded that at most, 10% of all new jobs are posted either on the Internet or in the classified ads section of a newspaper. That's just ten percent. When you think about it, that's not such a significant number. Where do the rest come from? You heard it--right from another person's mouth. And that's exactly what happens when most job positions are filled: the dissemination of information is done by word of mouth.
If you're looking for a new job or maybe you'd like to change your career, the important thing is that you network. Yes, the usual approach will probably get you a few interviews here and there but if you pay attention, your next job might just come from a referral that a friend or a friend's friend did. It's all about how the news about your job necessity travels. So read along and find out what you need to do to gather the right type of information from other people and how to go about it.
Be on the lookout
Networking can be done virtually anywhere. All you need is the right kind of attitude and a pleasing personality. Since it can be done anywhere, you may be able to strike up a conversation with someone whom you are seated next to in a bus ride home or maybe even in a job fair.
An even more common networking opportunity for you is in a social setting. You never really know how important a conversation may be until you look back and realize that the particular conversation that you had with a person actually ended up with you having a job that you like.
Be specific
As a person who is looking for a job, you should know what you are looking for. Whenever you describe your abilities, talents and skill set, you should be able to speak very briefly so that you can paint a picture in the mind of the person you are talking to. If you are good in art, you might want to describe yourself as "someone who is able to work on posters or any graphic materials for web and for print."
If the person you are having a conversation with knows of someone in need of a graphic artist, then you will be the first person that person will refer. Make it known that you are looking for a job and that you have what it takes to do it when they do think of you. That way, you'll end up being at the top of their mind whenever the opportunity calls for memory recall.
Be assertive
Never be too timid to promote yourself. It should follow that when you talk to people, you will use your time wisely in the sense that you will be able to ingrain in their minds that you are looking for a job, and that you are competent.
Part of building a network is to never ever make the people you talk to forget that you have unshakeable confidence in your abilities. When they give part of their time to you, you should remember to use as many specifics as you can in order for them not to forget you.
