Like the changing labor market, the art of networking has evolved in to something much greater than the traditional “word-of-mouth” exercise. There are a number of unique ways to tap in to your own personal community of contacts. Here is a hard-working tip that is both flexible and resilient. It will help you reach out to the people in your life who can give you the most useful and practical assistance you'll need to gain an interview with the hiring managers and resource professionals who have the power to hire you for the job you want. Don't overlook these amazing individuals in your life: family members, friends, neighbors, colleagues, and professional acquaintances.

 

 

Send out an e-mail asking for their employment leads, referrals from their circle of influence, and for personal introductions. These are the avenues you'll want to pursue with passion and persistence and here’s how you can get started now: First, create a master list of the names of your contacts that come to mind. Free write. Don't stop and edit. Avoid telling yourself you don't know this man or that woman well enough to contact. Set aside any negative talk that dismisses a particular individual. Your job now is to write as many names down as fast as you can. Look through your file cabinet, your wallet or purse, your junk drawer, wherever you can think of to locate business cards, brochures, flyers, or other printed materials that may contain a name and phone number or address of someone who might have a job lead for you.

 

Don't forget church or club rosters, your e-mail address book, association membership lists such as your college alumni association, health club acquaintances, social networks and so on. Take your time. This is an essential part of the success of networking. Keep in mind that the more people who know about you and what you're looking for, the better the results.

 

     • Confine your letter to one page.

     • List your strengths and abilities.

     • State your career preference.

     • Ask for referrals and job leads.              

     • Attach your resume to the email.

     • Send a thank you note to those who respond.   

 

Finally, follow up with your contacts by checking in with them every once in a while. Be sure to keep an open mind throughout your job search and be friendly and polite to every person you come in to contact with. You never know if the person bagging your groceries at the store knows someone who’s looking to hire someone like you! And when you do land that perfect job, send out a final e-mail to your network list letting them know that you’re off the market. They will appreciate the notice and think of you in the future if a new opportunity arises.