Effective networking tips for job seekers

There are infinite articles about networking to find a job.  They all say pretty much the same:  you have to get out there and sell yourself.  The implication is that networking is an activity focused on meeting the "right" people that will help you achieve something.  In this case, that something is a job lead, an interview, or an internship.   Wrong!! Networking is about cultivating relationships for mutual benefit. The key word is cultivating, which means that results from networking will not happen overnight.

So, what is the quickest way to produce effective job hunting results from networking?

Start with people who already know you.   I mean people who will return your calls, emails, those with whom you have had several interactions and have stayed in touch.  Why?  Because they could act as your ambassadors and help establish your trustworthiness with others.   They could help you consider perspectives or ideas you have not thought about.  And most importantly, they could offer support when things are not happening the way you expect.

Sort them by categories and rank them.  The three categories are:  friends, family and professional contacts.   Although you may be tempted to name everyone that you hang out with, focus on those that will feel comfortable to offer feedback, share your passion to proactively look for opportunities and believe in your ability to succeed as a young professional.  Use these three qualifiers to rank them.  For instance, of all of the family members mentioned, who are the top three that could be best at offering practical advice, or the one with the most knowledge about the type of career you want to pursue?

Looking for work does not have to be done in isolation.  But before you start asking everyone you know to send you job leads, do a bit of homework.  Take the time to work your network of contacts and be clear about how they can be of assistance during you job search.  This approach will save you lots of time, find qualified allies, and get you faster results.

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