Networking

Next to preparing a distinctive and effective resume, developing an active network is a vital skillset for your job-hunting program.

Here are the skills you will learn in creating a fully functioning Network of contacts:

• Expanding your field of vision and identify a growing set of individuals and possibilities for your next job
• Practicing in presenting yourself to the strangers you will meet throughout the job hunting process
• Practicing presenting your vision and character, as well as your experience, skillsets, and accomplishments
• Building your confidence for all upcoming job interviews and meetings
• Developing an expanding professional network for the future

Networking provides an Expanded Vision

As you progress in developing your networking skills, you introduce yourself to a growing number of referrals who give you access to new and previously unknown job possibilities, assuming you are open to suggestions and leads.  More than half of the clients I have coached have landed jobs they did not know about before they began networking.

Meeting Strangers

Networking begins with contacting people you know who then provide access and introductions to strangers who provide valuable information and access to opportunities.  Referrals are found in various industries and companies and often engaged in diverse levels and unfamiliar disciplines.  Networking supplies valuable experience with the unknown and raises your confidence level when you are introduced to new environments and people you don’t know.

Confidence for the Job Interview

Networking prepares you for presenting yourself professionally to strangers, answering questions, and demonstrating your personal qualities and character.  Networking initially involves people you know, who then refer you to their friends and associates.  This makes subsequent referral meetings more casual than meeting with a total stranger.

You are the host in a networking meeting, and you take the lead in presenting yourself and your professional goals.  You are asking for help with information, advice, and referrals to people who can add to your research and further your individual connections.

Presenting Your Three Key Strengths

Incorporating your Three Key Strengths into your presentation is my persistent advice throughout your job-hunting plan.  Demonstrating your understanding of the big picture, creating effective working relationships, and incorporating your work ethics – your three key strengths – represents an essential part of your networking meetings.

Creating Your Professional Network

Throughout the course of delivering your job-hunting marketing plan, you develop a network of individuals with vastly different disciplines, industries, and backgrounds.  Along the way, you become comfortable with reaching out, sharing, and receiving information from those you meet.  Keep in mind that the people you are referred to will demonstrate a willingness to assist you without hesitation because they are connected to you with a common associate or friend.

I find this constant among all job hunters I’ve coached.  They may have been connected through a common friend or acquaintance who promotes that referral’s involvement in your networking activity.

Many individuals you meet through networking remain on your contact list and continue to be a source for exchanging information and new ideas.  I encourage you to build a professional network in your new line of work.  This starts now, as part of your effective networking plan.

Look for updates and the expansion of Networking Skills in my Source Blog, and in my upcoming book, Job Hunting – Launching to Landing.