How to Network Your Way to Your Next Job

Finding a new job can be challenging if all you use are job boards or even third party recruiters. On a job board, you are considered more of a number than a person, and third party recruiters have a vested interest in pleasing their clients since the clients are paying the bill for finding candidates. Want to get out of the numbers' rut? Here are a few tips to help you network your way to your next job!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer
• Internet Access
• Notebook
• Pen
• Access to good networking resources

1. First, you will need a notebook and pen. Write down everyone you know and every possible outlet through which you might be able to access job information, such as local business networks, chambers of commerce, or online resources (other than traditional job boards).

2. Categorize and prioritize your network by those most likely to help you get in the door to your next opportunity, as well as the most effective business networking resources you are likely to use.

3. Research your companies of interest using your computer and the Internet. This will help you narrow down not only companies, but also positions that may or may not be available.

4. Once you have narrowed down the companies you wish to consider, next research to find the key leaders within those organizations. When networking your way to your next job, it is best to start at the very top of the organization. For example, if you are researching jobs in sales, start with the SVP of Sales or Chief Sales Officer and go from there.

5. Identify which resources you believe will be most effective in helping you get into your key companies. Talk with them to ask for their help with introductions into your target companies.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your target companies to a minimum--no more than 5-10 to start.
• Make sure your network is strong and you have established credibility with them before asking them to help you talk with key hiring decision makers within companies.
• Keep your notebook and pen constantly at hand so you can evaluate your goals and your target companies regularly.
• Do not badger prospective companies.
• Do not depend solely on your network--use them to help you catalyst to the hiring decision maker--but remember that you still have to sell them on your ability to do the job.