NETWORKING

FIRST STEP

Determine exactly what kind of job you are looking for so that you are able to inform others of your goal. But the rule is to never ask for a job; always ask for advice or information.

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SECOND STEP

Compile a list of everyone you know. Include friends, relatives, church members, co-workers, dentist, doctors, lawyer, accountant, hairdresser, teachers, and civic groups. These connections don't necessarily have to work in the industry or field in which you are targeting.

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THIRD STEP

Contact your connections to say that you are involved in a job search campaign and are looking for some suggestions. Describe the type of job you want and your background. Ask them if they know of someone who might be in a position to assist you. Be sure to thank them for their time and send a written thank you note. In addition, periodically, send your contact a note with updates on your job search progress.

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FOURTH STEP

Next you will need to contact the referrals that were suggested to you to set up a face-to-face informational meeting at their place of business. Say something like, "Mr. Smith, I have decided to make a career change, and our mutual friend, Mary Jones, seemed to feel that you would be a good person to speak with. She said that you are very knowledgeable about your industry and may be in a position to offer some general advice and ideas concerning my career change. I would enjoy stopping by to see you for 20 minutes or so to discuss my career plans and to hear your thoughts and suggestions. If you are agreeable, when would be a convenient time for you to meet with me?"

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FIFTH STEP

After confirming a date and time for a face-to-face meeting, follow the recommended format for the actual networking interview:

• Go to the meeting well-groomed, smile, be enthusiastic, and maintain eye contact.

  

• Use a firm handshake and make introductions.

• Extend your appreciation.

• Explain why you are looking for employment.

• Deliver a brief summary of your career accomplishments and goals.

• Ask them about their occupation, the company, and about any developments and trends in this industry.

• Get the contact's input on you job hunting strategies.

• Ask for a few names of key contacts that may be able to assist you.

• Ask for their permission to use their name as a referral when making these contacts.

• Thank them for their time.

• Send a written thank you note.

• Make sure you document the date of the meeting, their name, address, telephone number, how you learned of the contact, occupation, conversation summary, and who they referred you to.

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SIXTH STEP

Now you are able to start back at the Fourth Step by calling each of your new contacts to set up an informational meeting.

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