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Networking

Effective networking to find hidden career opportunities

Not every dream job is listed in the newspaper classifieds. In fact, the large majority of them remain hidden from the public until they are filled by candidates referred by current employees or trusted friends. This is the reason why a strong career network is essential to an effective job search. Networking will put you into contact with people in your industry that can give you tips, advice, and maybe even a phone number that will give you the edge over other candidates competing for the job of your dreams.

Everywhere you go is a potential network source

In order to build a strong network, you have to make a habit out of it. Everywhere you go, look for people to meet who may be able to assist in your job search. This includes parties, reunions, you name it -- if you look hard enough, it won't be difficult to find the people you're looking for. It's just a matter of keeping your eyes peeled so that when the opportunity presents itself, you'll recognize it immediately; doing so will give you an advantage over 99% of the job market. For example, most people would not think it's a good idea to engage someone at their gym in conversation after overhearing a relevant comment. Be on the lookout and treat networking as a 24/7 mission that could occur at any minute.

The importance of following up

While it would be wonderful if everybody you met was tripping over themselves for the chance to help you, most network contacts you meet probably have careers and to-do-lists of their own. It's not that they don't want to help you, only that they may be easily distracted by their own tasks. Try not to take it personally. After meeting a contact, follow-up with a heartfelt thank-you note that expresses your gratitude for their efforts. Make them feel appreciated, because after all, they are!

Keep in regular contact with everyone you meet, so that when an opportunity does arise, you'll be the first one they talk to. Don't be invasive or annoying, just let them know from time to time that you're still around and avctively job searching. While there might not be any opportunities at the moment, things are likely to change in the future. That's why it's important to stay in touch with ALL of your contacts, no matter how unimportant they might seem in the present situation.

Make it easy for your contacts to help

Your job search is vital to you, but it may be difficult to get other people to share your level of passion and enthusiasm. That's why you must concentrate on doing everything in your power to make it easy for contacts to help you. This includes asking detail-oriented questions that will give contacts a better idea of how they can help you. Let them know exactly what you're looking for and exactly what you're willing to do in order to get it.

Don't ask your contacts general or open-ended questions such as "So where should I start", or "What type of job do you think would be good for me?". These questions will result in an equally generic answer with not much thought or insight behind it.

Start Networking Immediately!

Finally, you must make a commitment to yourself that you will spend time working on your career network each day. Everywhere you go, you must be constantly searching for opportunities to meet people that will be valuable assets to your job search. Sure, you could cut corners and only put in a fraction of your full effort, but you’ll only reap the benefits of your network to the extent that you work to develop it.