Networking Tips
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While it would make the introverts, the meek, the shy, and the
novices awfully happy if the newspaper classifieds contained all
job openings, that's simply not the case.
In fact, some of the best jobs aren't listed anywhere except
in the mental catalogues of CEOs and managers. Some call it the
hidden job market.
So how do you apply for jobs that aren't advertised anywhere,
that exist only in the seemingly inaccessible minds of working
America's movers and shakers?
You meet people who might have insight into your job search. You
talk to people who know people who could help you out. You chat
it up with strangers at parties. You cold-call people you've read
about in the newspaper. You write cordial letters to prominent
community leaders. You cultivate an arsenal of contacts.
In short, you network your way into the hidden job market. Think
about networking as a game, as a sport, as a personal challenge.
Below are some strategies for success.
Brainstorm for Networking Contacts
Think of everyone who could possibly serve as a contact. Don't
limit yourself to people who could clearly help you out - friendly,
accessible people in unrelated fields often have contacts they
would be happy to share with you. Also, people who, through either
work or volunteer activities, have contact with a diverse crowd
can be extremely helpful. To get you started with your list, here
are some suggestions:
| Family friends |
Local politicians |
| Relatives |
Journalists |
| Neighbors |
Business executives |
| Professors |
Non-profit directors |
| Alumni |
Your physician |
| Former employees |
Your hair dresser |
| Former co-workers |
Prominent community members |
| Public relations officials |
Members of professional organizations |
| Religious leaders |
|
Tried and True Places to Network
| Local alumni association |
Conventions |
| Class reunions |
Club meetings |
| Cocktail parties |
Internet list-servs |
| Fundraisers |
Volunteer opportunities |
| Business conferences |
Continuing education classes |
Prepare for Networking
Networking is a little like planning a political campaign. While
it's essential that you are honest and relaxed, don't wing it.
Just as politicians think about what they tactically need to accomplish,
convey, and gain when they make an appearance or give a speech,
approach networking opportunities with a game plan.
Before you confidently and charmingly sashay into a business conference
room, a dinner party, or group event, do your homework. Find out
who will be there, or do your best to list who you think will probably
be present. Then decide who you would most like to meet. When you
have your list of potential contacts, thoroughly research their
work and their backgrounds and then make up some questions and
conversational statements that reflect your research.
Finally, think critically about what your goals are for your networking
function. What information do you want to walk away with? What
do you want to convey to the people you meet? But, as is always
true, it's important to be flexible and to perceive opportunities
you didn't plan to confront.
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