Career Tool Chest - Networking
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At CareerToolChest.com, we define networking as the day to day communications occurring between members of our communities for the purposes of gathering data, transferring information and making recommendations perceived as valuable by one or more parties involved. In other words we network every day, whether you realize it or not. Why not use these naturally occurring interactions for the purpose of gaining an employment advantage or learning about possible opportunities? Keep in mind that there are several employers that simply recruit by "word of mouth". Many jobs get filled by referral only and are never posted to the general public. In addition many business provide incentives to their employees for satisfactory applicant referrals. All you have to do is to communicate your interest.
Networking is therefore a necessary tool to add to your Career Tool Chest. The following are a variety of networking opportunities:
College career centers - Student or Alumni - Call your alma-matter's career center or research it on line. Many schools have job posting websites full of employers interested in persons just like you.
Professional Associations - In many instances it does not matter if you are member or not. They are sources of industry information. Visit the local chapter; make a telephone call, see if they have a job posting board or site.
Family and Friends - Ask your neighbors particularly if they are currently working in an industry that is of interest to you. Previous or current business associates are also good sources of information regarding potential job openings. In addition if you receive a job lead through this method, ask if they are able to refer you personally or if you are able to use their name when introducing yourself to the potential employer.
On-line social sites (Blogs,My Space, Linkedin, Facebook) - these sites are free to join. They are great ways to market yourself to a vast audiences and make professional and social contacts with people of similar backgrounds and interests. Please note that you should review the content of your social networking site periodically to remove any articles, pictures or videos that may be perceived as objectionable. Perceptions of your work ethic and moral character could be derived by potential employers that view your site content.
Churches - speak to the members of your religious group. Review the weekly flyers and handouts for possible leads. Participate in activities that you may find appealing. You could potentially aide your community as you market yourself
Employment or Community Centers - seek out your loocal employment or community centers. Visit them to determine the level of job placement service that they are able to offer you.
Temporary work agencies - if unable to secure a permanent full-time position, temp. agencies are wonderful places to introduce yourself to a variety of employers within your industry of interest.
Cold calling - pick up the telephone and call businesses that you are interested in. Ask if they have job openings. Try to get the name of the HR manager or recruiter. Follow up your telephone conversation with an application letter.
Given the state of the current economy, employment advantage is key when competing for jobs in the marketplace. Please visit CareerToolChest.com often . You will find information on a number of employment topics including a free resume builder, links to popular employment pages, interview advice and even an on-line store where you can purchase suits, shoes, books, electronics etc.. to get you ready for the important interview or to update your style.
At CareerToolChest.com, we define networking as the day to day communications occurring between members of our communities for the purposes of gathering data, transferring information and making recommendations perceived as valuable by one or more parties involved. In other words we network every day, whether you realize it or not. Why not use these naturally occurring interactions for the purpose of gaining an employment advantage or learning about possible opportunities? Keep in mind that there are several employers that simply recruit by "word of mouth". Many jobs get filled by referral only and are never posted to the general public. In addition many business provide incentives to their employees for satisfactory applicant referrals. All you have to do is to communicate your interest.
Networking is therefore a necessary tool to add to your Career Tool Chest. The following are a variety of networking opportunities:
College career centers - Student or Alumni - Call your alma-matter's career center or research it on line. Many schools have job posting websites full of employers interested in persons just like you.
Professional Associations - In many instances it does not matter if you are member or not. They are sources of industry information. Visit the local chapter; make a telephone call, see if they have a job posting board or site.
Family and Friends - Ask your neighbors particularly if they are currently working in an industry that is of interest to you. Previous or current business associates are also good sources of information regarding potential job openings. In addition if you receive a job lead through this method, ask if they are able to refer you personally or if you are able to use their name when introducing yourself to the potential employer.
On-line social sites (Blogs,My Space, Linkedin, Facebook) - these sites are free to join. They are great ways to market yourself to a vast audiences and make professional and social contacts with people of similar backgrounds and interests. Please note that you should review the content of your social networking site periodically to remove any articles, pictures or videos that may be perceived as objectionable. Perceptions of your work ethic and moral character could be derived by potential employers that view your site content.
Churches - speak to the members of your religious group. Review the weekly flyers and handouts for possible leads. Participate in activities that you may find appealing. You could potentially aide your community as you market yourself
Employment or Community Centers - seek out your loocal employment or community centers. Visit them to determine the level of job placement service that they are able to offer you.
Temporary work agencies - if unable to secure a permanent full-time position, temp. agencies are wonderful places to introduce yourself to a variety of employers within your industry of interest.
Cold calling - pick up the telephone and call businesses that you are interested in. Ask if they have job openings. Try to get the name of the HR manager or recruiter. Follow up your telephone conversation with an application letter.
Given the state of the current economy, employment advantage is key when competing for jobs in the marketplace. Please visit CareerToolChest.com often . You will find information on a number of employment topics including a free resume builder, links to popular employment pages, interview advice and even an on-line store where you can purchase suits, shoes, books, electronics etc.. to get you ready for the important interview or to update your style.
