Looking for a job? Many available jobs are never advertised in any print media. So how can you learn about these “hidden” jobs? The answer is networking…

What is networking?

Networking accounts for a substantial amount of all career placements. It means using personal and professional contacts to help you be-come aware of positions that may be open with-in a variety of organizations.

The Purpose of Networking

Through the process of networking you can let people know the following:

•  You are actively looking for a job
•  Your skills.
•  What type of career you are seeking.

The people in your network may be able to re-fer you to organizations that are currently hiring or even to help you to get interviews or actual job offers.

Who’s in Your Network?

As a college student, you may think that you have no contacts who can help, but everyone you know has a potential to be a useful contact in your job search. Be inclusive when you decide who is a member of your network! Consider starting with:

• Relatives
• Friends and acquaintances
• Classmates, teammates, and co-workers
• Supervisors
• Colleagues from professional organizations and religious groups
• Former teachers and faculty

Let these people know your needs. Listen to their ideas and suggestions. Ask them for names of others who might be helpful in your search.

Develop a Tracking System

Develop a record keeping or card file system for keeping track of each phone call, letter, inter-view, follow-up, and promise. Without this, you may soon become quite confused.

Be Professional

Effective networking can be a tremendous boost to a job search, but employing inappropriate techniques can cause you to lose valuable opportunities. As long as you approach people to whom you are referred in a professional and courteous manner, most people will be willing to share information because they like to help others and/or they want to stay “well-connected”. When speaking to a contact to whom you have been referred, mention the name of the person who referred you early in the conversation.

Return the Favor

Also remember that networking is a two-way street. You are developing a network of people to help you, and you should expect to return the favor. You might do the following:

• Send an article on a topic of mutual interest.
• Offer to treat them to lunch.
• Send a simple thank you note to individuals who have been particularly helpful

When your job search is concluded, let them know that you have obtained a position and thank them once again. Then, keep in touch with them periodically. They can be vital to your future professional development.

By Dr. Lawrence Crouch