Are you building a network of contacts? Or are you relying on the same-old-same-old of applying to advertised openings to land that next job? Most jobs are filled by someone the employer meets before the job is formally open. So the gist is to meet people who can hire you before a job is available. If you feel stuck, start with baby steps.
1. Start listing people you know and methodically contact them
Write a list of anyone with whom you are friendly; then make a separate list of all your relatives. These two lists alone often add up to 25 to 100 people or more. Next, think of other groups with whom you have something in common, such as former coworkers or classmates; members of your social groups; members at your fitness club; members of your professional association; former employers; and members of your religious group. You may not know many of these people personally, but most will want to help you if you ask them. Every one of these people is a contact. Obviously, some lists and some people on those lists will be more helpful than others, but almost any one of them could possibly help you find a job lead.
2. Ask them for help
Start with your relatives and friends. If you’re comfortable with a Twitter or Facebook direct message to them, go for it. Or email, text or call them. Tell them you are looking for a job and need their help. But be as clear as possible about what you are looking for and what skills and qualifications you have. It’s possible they will know of a job lead or opening they feel might be a possible fit for you. If so, get the details and jump on it! More likely, however, they won’t have an opening, lead or anything else top of mind. So try these three questions:
- Do you know of any openings for a person with my skills? The answer is usually no. If it is, ask the next question.
- Do you know of someone else who might know of such an opening? If your contact does, get that name and ask for another one. If he or she doesn’t, ask the next question.
- Do you know of anyone who might know of someone else who might? Another good way to ask this is “Do you know someone who knows lots of people?” If all else, fails, this will usually get you a name.
3. Contact these leads and ask them the same questions.
For each original contact, you can extend your network of acquaintances by hundreds of people. Eventually, there’s a good chance that one of these people will hire you or refer you someone who will.
It can take awhile. It’s not easy. But a dedicated networking approach can be the search technique that brings you what you want. And if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, remind yourself that this is not even all about finding job openings. Networking is building relationships with people who know other people, who may know other people who know of jobs. Networking is also about getting advice about your search and insight into the organizations you’re trying to break into. Do you have tips for networking? I’d love to hear your comments!
Photo: Dermot O’Halloran
