Networking

Networking Opportunities exist everywhere!!

Networking is critical for the success of your career and job search .Many job search experts say that 70-80% of all jobs are obtained through utilizing your network of personal contacts! Wow!

Many of us are intimidated by the idea of trying to make contacts or feel that the networking process is superficial. Networking doesn't have to be something we're uncomfortable about doing if we understand what it is and how to do it successfully. Networking is not using people. Rather, it is:

A way to gather information about industries, companies, and careers you're interested in.
A way to help you meet people within your field or potential field
A way to help people become more aware of what you have to offer

What Does "Networking" Really Mean?

Networking exists everywhere --- in formal and informal situations. It's likely that you're already doing it without realizing that it's "networking". As students, you're currently building a network with your classmates, friends, professors, staff from various departments and offices, and other people from the University or where you work. Your opportunity to network and build your resources may take place in the classroom, in your dorm, while using the library, or while having lunch.

Networking is both a formal and informal process of meeting people. Meetings are conducted in groups, or, most likely, one-on-one. It gives you the chance to meet new people and provide an opportunity for others to get to know the you.

Pros:

There are many opportunities, as a Carlson student, to meet people to network with
Can be a very "natural," easy to do method for some
Short-term and long-term benefits
Network possibilities are endless because you can ask each person you meet for more names so that your network continues to grow and expand
Taps “hidden” job market
Way to establish new professional relationships
Means of finding or creating a position suitable to your skills
Means of meeting people and employers on a referral basis
Run into at least one job opportunity out of every 12-16 meetings
May help you get around competition for a job

Cons:

The further you stray from your original base, the weaker the links
It requires a genuine effort
Time consuming

Networking Hints

Whom Do I Contact?

“Close to Home”
This includes family, other relatives, friends, supervisors (past and present), teachers, students, co-workers, etc. Really - anyone you know. Tell those people what you’re looking for and if they know anyone else who can help you .

Knowledgeable Contacts
Contact people in the field of your interest or those who are knowledgeable.

Contacts with connections
Contact people with wide connections.

Others searching for jobs
Contact friends that are also in the job search process and exchange network names.

Here is a list of people you can contact to network with:

Relatives
Friends of relatives
Friends
Relatives of friends
Acquaintances
Clients/customers
Co-workers
Classmates
Professors
CSOM alumni & staff
Social club members
Minister/Clergy
Neighbors
Supervisor
Professional association members
Business Professionals
Doctor/dentist
Insurance agent
Attorney
Other job seekers

Create a Network Directory

Use the Networking Directory Worksheet (next page).
Duplicate this worksheet and use it to document your network contacts.
Call people you know well.
Contact individuals that will respond to your request to get together for a brief chat about your resume and accomplishments.
Seek out Referrals - Locate a “Bridge” Connection.
Seek out contacts at targeted companies. Find out from relatives, friends or others if they have contacts in that organization.

MAINTAIN YOUR NETWORK! It is absolutely critical!
Don’t let your network languish! It is very important to keep it active even when you’re not in the job market. New opportunities may arise from talking with your network.

HINT: Always send thank you notes and return favors when possible.

See the next sections about the following topics:

Key Elements of All Networking Situations
Keys for Successful Networking & What students say about Networking

Networking Worksheet