Job Search Preparation

Have you ever heard that when it comes to finding a job, it’s not what you know, but who you know? This cliché describes the important role that your network plays in a job search. In fact, when it comes to a successful job search, any career service professional will tell you that networking is the #1 method by which people learn about and/or land a job.

Building your network

When your goal is to increase the number of contacts that you have in your network, it’s helpful to not view a new contact as simply someone that you want help from in learning about or getting a position. Effective networking is based on relationships that are cultivated so that a mutual exchange of information, advice, and support is given and received.  You can network to decide on a career choice, to conduct a job search, for career management, or for business development.

Networking contacts can include:

• Social Circles (friends, family, co-workers, etc.)
• Education (professors, advisors, continuing education seminars, etc.)
• Professional Groups (trade associations, formal networking groups, breakfast clubs)
• Personal & Professional Services (physicians, attorneys, accountants, etc.)
• Multimedia (newsgroups, web sites, personal e-mail address list, authors, etc.)

How to network:

• Create a personal commercial about yourself:
  

1. Who you are in terms of education, work situation, and roles.
2. Highlight your skills, qualifications, and accomplishments.
3. Explain why you are networking (job leads, information about a career, etc.)
   

• Establish rapport:
  

1. Speak clearly and enthusiastically.
2. Don’t speak too fast or too slowly.
3. Try to remain poised and relaxed.
4. Minimize distracting body language.
5. Smile!

Where to Network:

• Networking can include an informal chat, e-mail, a formal appointment, or over telephone:
  

1. One-to-one meetings with networking contacts
2. Conferences or conventions
3. Training sessions or workshops
4. Networking groups
5. Social and Community settings
   

• Using the Telephone and/or E-mail for Networking:
  

1. Have a professional message on your voice mail.
2. When leaving a message, speak your name and contact information clearly.
3. Use an appropriate e-mail address (e.g., firstlastname@mail.com).
4. Use proper grammar and verbiage in your e-mail.