Networking Tips

• Networking is your single strongest resource.
  
• Networking is really about enlarging your contact base to help you gain visibility and find people to talk with. A hidden job market exists and people, if and when they do hire, like to bring on people they know or have been referred to them.
  
• Start by developing a list of everyone you know, from all the different parts of your life – school, hobbies, friends, family, religious affiliation, past jobs, etc. Don’t discount a group because it isn’t career focused; these people could be great potential contacts.
  
• Networking means reaching out to people for information and help. It’s critical that you know what you want so you don’t flounder when talking with people, or waste their time. If you’re still uncertain about what you want, revisit the self assessment piece of your job search before you begin to network.
  
• Most people will try to help you if they understand what you’re looking for. Recognize that this is the way many people do business, especially in upper level positions. Instead of asking for a job, ask about contacts, companies, and names of people who might talk with you about these functions, careers or firms.
  
• Once you have a list of potential contacts, use your “elevator pitch” that states your background, areas of expertise, and what you are looking for. In other words, how can this person help? Initial contact should be by email or phone, with your goal being a face-to-face meeting. If they won’t agree to see you, ask if they can think others who might help. That next contact will be less of a “cold call” if you are able to say, “My name is Lucy Adams, and Jason Smith suggested I contact you…”
  
• Try using a script to practice before making your first call. Focus on the reason for your call, how they can help, and permission to use their name if they have contacts to share. Try to schedule a meeting. After the initial contact, send a resume and follow-up. Continue to stay in touch with this person.
  
• Once you have arranged a meeting, dress in business attire.
  
• During the meeting, focus on listening carefully to gain information and identify key people who can help. Try to reciprocate by offering ideas or referrals that might help them.
  
• Keep notes about any conversations and meetings you have. Make sure you send thank you notes to your contacts and keep them informed of your progress.