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It’s no secret that networking is a vital component to any successful job search. The vast majority of employers source potential hires through referrals and word of mouth leads, not through responses to classified ads or online postings. Having a professional network of people who know you and what you are looking for it the most important ingredient to successfully securing the job you want.
"I'll start networking when I’m looking for a job."
No. Networking is NOT about meeting people to ask for a job. Ultimately, it may lead to a great opportunity, but the main purpose is to build a network of people who know you and what you’re looking for over time. Networking is an ongoing process of building relationships, and staying in touch with those with whom you’ve met or become acquainted. Hint: if you met one contact a semester while at Smith, and kept in touch with them once a year, you’d have eight terrific networking contacts upon graduation.
"I don’t know anyone."
Parents, family, friends/family friends, parents of friends, Smith alumnae, faculty, Smith staff, internship supervisors, and the like are all contacts and potential sources of new contacts. Make a list of people you know in these categories. Bet you have at least five people already. See? That was easy…
"I have nothing to say."
You do need a reason for being in touch with someone. But, even if you’re looking for work or an internship, your reason for contacting people shouldn’t be about asking for or getting a job. Contacting someone to learn more about their field or background is a perfectly good reason, and affords lots of opportunity for discussion about your career goals and plans. The can help you explore this further.
Don’t just jump in and start calling people. Know what to say and how to approach a potential networking contact.
Start by reading the to learn more about the how to’s of networking and informational interviewing.
The Lazarus Center for Career Development also offers of the art of networking, which helps students practice everything from hand shakes to what to say in networking situations. Check out the upcoming calendar events for dates and times. And, you can always meet with an adviser to learn more.
In addition, tap into the and local around the world to learn more about networking events and opportunities.
is an interactive career profile database that allows you a personal and uncensored look into thousands of real careers and jobs through the eyes of the people who work them.
Updated 3/6/12
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