Networking: the Best Way to Get a Job

"It's not about what you know, it's about whom you know." Does that statement ring a bell? It should, since I said it in my last blog. But I can't reiterate it enough.

In today's working world, studies have shown that only about 5 to 10 percent of new jobs are posted online or on the Internet - all other positions are filled by word of mouth. So getting your foot in the door of a company might not be about your education or experience, but more so about your personal contacts. In fact, two years ago The Wall Street Journal reported that 94 percent of successful job seekers claimed that networking had made the difference for them.

Networking can happen anytime, anywhere, whether it be by talking to a stranger on the train, meeting a friend for coffee or a drink, contacting an alum from your alma mater, or having your best friend's dad put in a good word for you.

Here are some helpful ways to successfully network.

Find People to Network With

You feel like you don't know anyone who can help you, but the truth is, your resources are endless. While it might seem awkward approaching your sisters' friend or the random girl from your class last semester (who happens to have some awesome hook-ups), it's totally necessary. Here are resources to find people to network with:

• Your family (immediate and extended)
• Friends and friends' families
• College alumni association or career office networking lists
• Professors, advisors, coaches, tutors, clergy
• Members of clubs/organizations you belong to
• Former bosses and your friends'/family's bosses
• Facebook.com or MySpace.com

Be assertive ... but not desperate

Know what you want and what you're looking for in a job. Address your talents, skills and goals when you're talking with a contact. Even if you're networking with someone you've known your whole life, it's important to appear serious about your acquisition - not like you've already got the job in the bag simply because you know someone. Also, don't forget to sell yourself - be confident and say what you need to to leave a lasting impression.

Don't leave such a lasting impression that you come across as pushy. Talk about yourself, but don't forget to listen, too. Don't ask for a job - ask for advice. They might be able to give you the inside scoop on who is in charge, who to contact directly (other than HR), what kinds of people have held the job you're looking at, or how to customize your cover letter and resume to get noticed.

Keep Important Tools

When you meet with a contact, bring along the necessary tools, like your resume or business cards with all your current contact information. Don't forget to ask for contact info as well, and make sure to follow-up with an e-mail telling them how much you enjoyed your meeting. This is one sure way they'll keep you in mind.

Don't give up

Networking (and job-hunting in general) can be an arduous process. Some contacts might be able to help you right away, others after a few months, and some not at all. Don't get discouraged if you don't see success right away. Just keep networking.

Comments

[Taylor]

please update me if have more jobs related to software and BPO platform.

office jobs

[lawrence smith]

i am a harworker and very dedicated, looking for a job where there is room for advancement. will do anything to make it to the top.