What is "networking"?
Net´work´ing (net'wûrk'ing) 1. Contact development 2. The process of exchanging information, experience and contacts with people you know for professional purposes.
Networking is no different than trying to find a good Mexican restaurant. By asking people you know sooner or later someone will tell you where you can find the best enchiladas around. Likewise, networking involves asking your friends, relatives, professors and others to help you find contacts in your chosen industry. Uncle Fred might not be in advertising but he probably knows someone who is. And if he doesn't, his old college roommate might. Eventually, you will find people who work in your chosen field and who will be able to provide you with valuable "insider" information about the specific industry or organization. Effective networking could, quite possibly, help you find a job because today over 2/3 of jobs are filled through this "hidden job market."
How do I network?
Be clear and knowledgeable about the market and industry you are going to target. You should keep up to date with the field by:
- Reading trade publications (magazines, journals and newsletters put out by the industry)
- Reading articles from mainstream media (daily newspapers, magazines likeTime or Business Week and daily news broadcasts
- Attending industry associations, meetings and conventions that relate to the
Make a list of everyone you know, even if they have no apparent connection to the field in which you are interested. Try contacting:
Family
Internship Sites
Former Employees
Neighbors
Professional Organizations
Friend's Parents
Community Organizations
Faculty
Classmates
Former Classmates
Parent's Friends
Advisors
Alumni
Friends
Volunteer Organizations
Contact the people on your list and tell them that you want to pursue a career in your chosen field and that you are eager to talk with anyone who could give you some background information. Your goal is to gain referrals that will give you information and advice about the industry/organization. Over time, these people will refer you to other people until you come across job leads.
Networking Tips
Get comfortable on the phone. Try an Informational Interview .
Use referral names as a door opener. Take notes during and after your conversations.
Be enthusiastic and professional. Send a Thank You Letter (PDF).