Searching For a Job: #4 Build Your Support Network

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Did you know? For every person who finds a position through Monster or Jobster, at least ten more find theirs through the people they know. In fact, most job opportunities are never even advertised because organizations look first at people they know and people who come recommended by people they know when it comes time to hire someone. People are the most important source of information about new jobs and career opportunities. Building and maintaining a good personal network will serve you well as you make your way in the working world.

Why Networking Works
Watch this 4 minute video clip on the five reasons Why Networking Works. Then complete the chart on your guide to further explain each key point.
  1. Gets You in Front of People
  2. People Really Want to Help
  3. It’s Self Perpetuating
  4. Gain Information about Yourself
  5. Leaves a Lasting Impression
Make a Networking Introduction
Because people are busy, it is important to develop a networking introduction that will quickly identify who you are, what you want. You will want to grab a person’s attention and make a good first impression in your initial contact. You want to make a 1,2,3 connection. Fill out your networking introduction on your guide.
  1. Who are you and how are you connected? My name is Jack Jones and Mark Peter’s and I went to school together. He suggested that I contact you.
  2. What do you want? I am looking for an entry level accounting position with a large accounting firm.
  3. What is your background? I will be graduating from Orange Coast College with an AA in Business, and I am have completed an internship with Parker and Post.
Your Networking Report Card
Connecting with people and learning to nurture and grow relationships will help you throughout your career. With the reliance on new technologies, many young grads do not realize how important networking is and how to go about building a personal network. Harvey Mackay is a top selling author who has built a career advising successful people. In his book, Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty, he has a Networking Report Card. See how you perform as you answer and score your responses.

Who you know gets you into the door, what you know keeps you there!