It is all about who you know. The more people you are in contact with, the better when it comes to looking for a new opportunity. Networking is more important than it has ever been as there are so many ways in which to do it. Make sure you know of all the facets people use to keep in touch and to meet new people in high places.
Networking is a pyramiding strategy… one where you capitalize on one name to gain an interview with another. The most popular style of networking involves seeking informational interviews.Your purpose here would be to get an appointment with executives and ask them to share with you some information about their industry challenges.
Naturally, if you happened to be well connected, and you maintained a list of contacts into the hundreds, that could help give you a fast start.Unfortunately, the problem with this is that it usually takes a long time. And, some people fi nd it demeaning to approach friends and acquaintances to ask for help in fi nding a new career position.
Nevertheless, it does work if you have the time and inclination to approach your job search this way. Hopefully, some of your discussions will result in referrals to another executive who might have something for you… and be able to use your talents.
While this traditional networking can work, besides taking time, networking people with a new job in mind has become overworked. Just about every executive has been networked over and over again. What’s more, who has 45 minutes to an hour to devote to someone else? Or even 30 minutes?
Networking the new way:
The growth of the Internet and social networking sites such as LinkedIn, Zoominfo, Zing and others, combined with personal marketing websites and the use of email… are ushering in a new era of networking. And, it is a much easier and more effective way to network.
All you need are some superior resumes and an attractive personal marketing website that display your formal credentials, accomplishments and transferable skills in an impressive way. Then, instead of asking for “an informational interview,” you can just send off a well designed email with a link to your website.
People on the receiving end will get it and be impressed and you will have their time. And, you can use this method to contact hundreds of people in a very short time… people who have a high probability of being able to help you.What kind of people?
I’m not suggesting that you do this with your genuine personal contacts and real friends, who will look forward to visiting with you on a personal basis. However, they would also be very interested in seeing your personal marketing website.