25 Networking Insider Tips Of Getting Your Dream Job

1. Two-thirds of all jobs are secured via the networking process.

Networking is a systematic approach to cultivating formal and informal

contacts for the purpose of gaining information, enhancing visibility in

the market, and obtaining referrals.

2. Effective networking requires self-confidence, poise, and personal

conviction.

3. You must first know the companies and organizations you wish to work

for. That will

determine the type of network you will develop and nurture.

4. Focus on meeting the "right people." This takes planning and

preparation.

5. Target close friends, family members, neighbors, social

acquaintances, social and religious group members, business contacts,

teachers, and community leaders.

6. Include employment professionals as an important part of your

network. This includes

head-hunters and personnel agency executives. They have a wealth of

knowledge about

job and market conditions.

7. Remember, networking is a numbers game. Once you have a network of

people in place,

prioritize the listing so you have separated top-priority contacts from

lower-priority ones.

8. Sometimes you may have to pay for advice and information. Paying

consultants or professionals or investing in Internet services is part

of the job search process today, as long as it's legal and ethical.

9. Know what you want from your contacts. If you don't know what you

want, neither will

your network of people. Specific questions will get specific answers.

10. Ask for advice, not for a job. You should not contact someone asking

if they know of any job openings. The answer will invariably be no,

especially at higher levels. You need to ask for things like industry

advice, advice on geographic areas, etc. The job insights will follow

but will be almost incidental. This positioning will build value for you

and make the contact person more comfortable about helping you.

11. Watch your attitude and demeanour at all times. Everyone you come in

contact with is a

potential member of your network. Demonstrate enthusiasm and

professionalism at all

times.

12. Keep a file on each member of your network and maintain good records

at all times. A

well-organized network filing system or database will yield superior

results.

13. Get comfortable on the telephone. Good telephone communication

skills are critical.

14. Travel the "information highway." Networking is more effective if

you have email, fax, and computer capabilities.

15. Be well prepared for your conversation, whether in person or over

the phone. You should have a script in your mind of how to answer

questions, what to ask, and what you're trying to accomplish.

16. Do not fear rejection. If a contact cannot help you, move on to the

next contact. Do not take rejection personally-it's just part of the

process.

17. Flatter the people in your network. It's been said that the only two

types of people who can be flattered are men and women. Use tact,

courtesy, and flattery.

18. If a person in your network cannot personally help, advise, or

direct you, ask for referrals.

19. Keep in touch with the major contacts in your network on a monthly

basis. Remember,

out of sight, out of mind.

20. Don't abuse the process. Networking is a two-way street. Be honest

and brief and offer your contacts something in return for their time,

advice, and information. This can be as simple as a lunch, or offering

your professional services in return for their cooperation.

21. Show an interest in your contacts. Cavette Robert, one of the

founders of the National Speakers Association, said, "People don't care

how much you know, until they know how much you care." Show how much you

care. It will get you anywhere.

22. Send thank-you notes following each networking contact.

23. Seek out key networking contacts in professional and trade

associations.

24. Carry calling cards with you at all times to hand out to anyone and

everyone you come

in contact with. Include your name, address, phone number, areas of

expertise, and/or

specific skill areas.

25. Socialize and get out more than ever before. Networking requires

dedication and massive amounts of energy. Consistently work on expanding

your network.