Networking is THE most effective way to secure your next job and manage your career. We no longer live in the bubble of a lifetime with a single employer. Therefore, we need to step out of our old ways of thinking and develop our network. Yet most people either don't want to, don't know how to, or do it wrong.
I came across an article on networking in The Huffington Post written by Jason Mannino, Career Coach, Life Coach, Speaker/Trainer. Mannino defines networking as:
"Simply put, networking is the art of cultivating mutually beneficial relationships to support the achievement of professional goals. Ultimately, networking in regards to your job search means making human contact with people who may be in a position to help you."
Mannino's article goes on to outline five ways to engage in networking. To summarize:
- Old co-workers
- Professional associations
- Industry and Career related conferences
- Social organizations/fundraising events
- Alumni/professors/classmates
Here is another article on informational meetings with advice on seven steps to conduct effective meetings. This was written by nationally certified resume writer and career coach, Michelle Dumas.
Here's my frustration. With so much information proving that networking is the most effective way to land a job, why are job seekers fighting it? And, why are there still people who are employed who say they don't have time? Let's all embrace networking.
Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success.
