I was asked what networking is by one of my readers. I realize that I didn't expand much on it last week when I said that "networking" was essential when job hunting. Below you'll find an official definition, but I'll expand on it based on it as it relates to job hunting or finding a dream job.
For discussion purposes we are only going to focus on definition number one.
I think it's important to focus on why the exchange of information, knowledge among people, schoolmates, companies etc. is important when job hunting. First, I believe that many times when confronted with the challenge of finding a job there is a sense of, "I don't need anyone to help me". So, the average person goes about their way trying to land a job on their own. Sometimes it works and more often than not, it doesn't. So, networking and getting to know people in your field is a great way to get the word out that you are looking for a job. Tell everyone you know that may provide you some insight or a lead that might help you find that dream job.
For discussion purposes we are only going to focus on definition number one.
Definition of NETWORKING
1: the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions; specifically : the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business 2: the establishment or use of a computer network
2: the establishment or use of a computer network
I think it's important to focus on why the exchange of information, knowledge among people, schoolmates, companies etc. is important when job hunting. First, I believe that many times when confronted with the challenge of finding a job there is a sense of, "I don't need anyone to help me". So, the average person goes about their way trying to land a job on their own. Sometimes it works and more often than not, it doesn't. So, networking and getting to know people in your field is a great way to get the word out that you are looking for a job. Tell everyone you know that may provide you some insight or a lead that might help you find that dream job.
Networking doesn't have to happen in a formal setting. It can happen at a family party, a casual get together and even online. Speaking of online...if you are currently searching for a job, I highly encourage you to create a free account on Linkedin. It's a professional social networking sight and it also has the ability to expose you to many recruiters that may find your profile attractive.
Networking does take some work. It is up to you to make the extra effort to go out of your way to get to know people in-person or online and then follow-up. With this said...if you network enough you may find it rewarding in the end and that it really does pay off.
One last thing about networking...it should be continuous. Just because you land your dream job doesn't mean you stop networking and exchanging information and ideas with professionals in your field. The most successful people are those who have a large and extended network of many years. You never know when you are going to need someone in your network ten years down the road.
Questions?
Networking does take some work. It is up to you to make the extra effort to go out of your way to get to know people in-person or online and then follow-up. With this said...if you network enough you may find it rewarding in the end and that it really does pay off.
One last thing about networking...it should be continuous. Just because you land your dream job doesn't mean you stop networking and exchanging information and ideas with professionals in your field. The most successful people are those who have a large and extended network of many years. You never know when you are going to need someone in your network ten years down the road.
Questions?
This is very useful information on networking. Thank you for taking the time in sharing your knowledge.
ReplyDelete