Accelerate Your Job Search with Networking

There is a proven and effective way to land a job during your job search, and it's possible that you may already be doing it without even knowing it. It's networking.

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Get the Word Out

The old saying, ''It's not what you know, but who you know,'' may not be completely accurate, but when it comes to job searching, it can help you to get your foot in the door with certain employers. Experts say that job searching is accelerated through networking.. This can be as simple as mentioning to your friends and family in passing that you're looking for a job.




A little more aggressive approach is to make a list of people who you know that have connections or contacts in the field you're searching in. Do you have a friend who has a friend who has a cousin that's the HR manager of a company? Start looking into that lead. Now's also the time to look up old college classmates and former coworkers, and start talking to your mom's bowling buddies, your brother's business partner, etc. Also, consider making contacts with people who belong to the same groups that you do: church groups, clubs, community associations, etc. And last but not least, do not underestimate the power of social networking websites such as facebook.com. These can be very helpful in your search.

Keep it Simple

The key to networking is to keep conversations light and simple with contacts and potential leads. You do NOT want people to feel like you're pouncing on them, or that you feel like they owe you this favor (even if they do). Casually mention that you're job searching, and you may even consider taking them for a drink or out to dinner (if you can afford it).

Be Prepared

While networking can be very effective in helping you to get your foot in the door and possibly even landing you an interview, be prepared for your interview by researching out the company, and understanding what the position requires because you can only rely on who you know for so long.



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