How to Network to Find a Job

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By Tiferet
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Network to Find a Job

In this tough economy, finding a job can be more challenging but not impossible. Networking effectively can help you find positions before the competition. Here's how.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

A computer
A phone
Business cards
Updated resume

Step 1

Make a list of all your known contacts including friends, relatives, and previous work colleagues. Don't be shy, let everyone you know that you are seeking work and be prepared with a brief one minute speech to let them know what type of work you are seeking. You never know who will have the right connection.
Step 2

If you aren't already signed up on Linked In, this is an incredibly powerful tool to use in searching for people that have the power to hire you. Once you are signed up, link to as many people you know as possible. Past colleagues will be the best, however, any person you know will be connected to many other people who may be in your industry and have the inside track to jobs. If you find a person who is linked to someone you know, ask them for an introduction. It is important that you ask previous colleagues to give you a recommendation as some job listings on Linked In require a recommendation in order for you to apply.
Step 3

Join as many networking groups as possible. These may be within your own profession or may be associated with religious groups, civic groups (Rotary, Lion's Clubs, Kiwanis), or alumni associations. Ask a librarian to help you to track down others or call your local Chamber of Commerce. Attend these groups regularly and have cards available to hand out to people who may have a job contact. Ask people if they know anyone in your industry. If they do ask if you can use their name as an introductory reference.
Step 4

Identify places where you want to work. Check out their website and if you see a job posting, check out their board of directors. If you know someone on the board call them up and find out more about the organization. If you don't know anyone check with your contacts to see if they do or if they know more about the organization. If you see a job posting, it's best if you can find someone within the organization and find out about the hiring manager. Send your resume directly to that person instead of HR. HR may screen you out and this will ensure your resume gets to the right person.
Step 5

If you've identified an organization or company you want to work for, use your contact or your chutzpah and call the company president or Executive Director. Ask if you can have an informational interview. If you have ideas about what you can do for the company, present them. Keep in mind that sometimes jobs are offered to solve a problem that exists within an organization and if you are there offering a solution, you'll be the only candidate and could be offered contract work or even a full time job right on the spot.
Step 6

Of course, make sure that your resume is current and that you have a solid objective stating what you are looking for. Only use your resume if you are asked during informational interviews and then only if you are applying for a position.