Insider's tips for effective job search networking
So you ready to plunge into the business of building contacts, but don't know how to start. These insider's tips for effective networking should get you started. Networking is a system used for building a contact list of people that can aid your in your job search and is easier to use than you think.
You can start conversations in a number of ways. A really simple but effective networking method is to ask assistance or indicate that you would appreciate advice. Most people love to share their knowledge and once the conversation is going, you can drop a comment about finding a suitable job.
Whenever you can, you should include the word 'network' in your conversation. By stating that you would like to network with a person, you immediately get his attention. Remember, people always want to know what they get from a situation.
Prepare a very short summary of what type of job interests you as well as a description of your skills, qualifications and experience. Don't assume that since a person has known you for years, he would know what makes you tick or what your job aspirations are. Use your CV objective and personal profile to build the summary. Two to three sentences should suffice. If more information is required the person will ask.
There are instances when you need to provide more detail for example, when you meet someone for the first time. Keep the summary short even under such circumstances. Think about the time limit when you start a conversation with a person in a bank line. You need to get the message across in less than forty seconds and preferably within twenty seconds. Prepare your short and longer version for these occasions.
Make the most of the opportunity
Wouldn't it be sad if you created interest and left no contact details? The person may want to reach you or forgot the particulars of the conversation and has nothing to remind him. For effective networking, you should always have business cards to hand out. The problem with most business cards are that they don't provide enough information and people forget why they received them in the first place. Turn your business card into a compact résumé by adding a short summary of your résumé objectives on the back of the card. Even though you may not own a business or are not employed at a certain company, you can use a personal or network card for effective networking. They remind the person of your skills and don't land in the normal CV or business card pile.
You should include your name, surname, contact details, occupation or profession, and main career interest on the front of the card for effective networking.
Apart from the network card, you can also use e-mail signature as part of your effective networking strategy. Few people use the signature facility of their e-mail program for more than stating their names, contact details, and position at a company. You can easily include more information such as your qualifications, experience and tell people that you are looking for a job in a specific field. End it with an action statement such as: 'Please forward information on any related jobs.' If you are currently employed, you should however not include the end statement.
