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2. Build up your Network
It is a reality that most of the job vacancies are never posted in journals, newspapers or on-line and you only find them using your personal or business contacts - your "Network". This also sometimes is called the "hidden job market".
Finding a job is all about people you know and people you meet who have the information you need to get a job in this hidden job market. Even if Networking sounds complicated, in reality you just need to keep track of people you know in your personal and work environment. Focus on people who have experiences and contacts that might be interesting for you. If you ask any successful job-seeker how he found open positions and got hired, you will hear frequently expressions like: "my connections", “contacting people”, “referrals”, etc. There are many ways to make contacts or to build up your network. A good example is job fairs or similar events where you meet hiring managers, job lead sources and other valuable contacts. Here’s a list of activities you might consider to start:
- Attending job fairs, classes, or workshops
- Contacting friends working in related fields (either by calling or by writing) Working as a volunteer or serving on committees
- Participating in an online community (try for instance Linkedin)
- Attending sporting or cultural events
- Contacting professional associations
- Writing articles or giving presentations in your industry or community
Don’t be afraid to talk to people. If you are not experienced in making contacts and don’t know the person well, explain who you are and how you know him/her. Explain briefly your current situation and what you want. Be clear and specific so they recognize opportunities that will work for you. Don't forget: You don't loose anything and most of the time people are open to help you.
Once you made the contacts, you need to follow up with the people you met. If you do not maintain the contact you are wasting your time. Job seeking is a very dynamic process and your network contacts will forget about you in a matter of weeks or think that you are not interested any more.
Building up a network is not making hundreds of contacts in a record time but to concentrate on developing relationships. Find ways to build on your connections by setting up an informational interview, inviting them to another event you are attending or talking to them in a more personal atmosphere (e.g. during lunch time or coffee break). If you are following these advises you will open the most precious resource you have in finding the job you want.
For people with difficulties in establishing a powerful network, we recommend Michelle Tullier’s book “Networking for Job Search and Career Success” which contains many ideas on "networking for introverts" and accompanying exercises that help to overcome communication problems.
Next: Review Job Leads and Target potential Employers