The most effective way to get a job is through networking. Too often, the fear of picking up the phone and asking to speak to a hiring manager paralyzes job hunters, yet this is the most valuable way to get results.
Make the call exploratory. Tell the hiring manager you are looking for work and would appreciate any advice he or she could offer. Ask what the manager looks for in a candidate and whom you might talk to. Take notes. Write a follow-up thank you note.
Networking should warm you up to constructive interviewing and help you discover the value of learning from, and helping, others. It should come naturally for journalists. Look at it as reporting on a valuable topic: You.
Use a solid resume as your business card. Use it to market your value and strengths, accomplishments and results. Then build your network. Everyone in a network counts: family, friends, church associates, work associates, neighbors, vendors, kids' parents, acquaintances you meet at the gym and more.
The people you meet may advocate for you when it comes time to finding a job. Build good rapport with them through face-to-face meetings and regular follow-ups, and the jobs will eventually come.
Here are a few examples of networking using different approaches:
The New York Times describes a new networking world called
"likemind," a casual group for young professionals worldwide. You can find similar social groups in your geographic location online and in your local newspapers' business section. Sites such as
LinkedIn and
Women Empower, a networking site for women in business, are also worth a look.
I particularly like
Salary.com and
the advice it offers:
- Network everyday, everywhere.
- Use resumes like personal flyers.
- Use informational interviews.
- Network toward a job.
Remember to keep records of all your networking activity by recording the names of those you've met, where you met them and what you discussed. Then follow up until you secure that next job.
