Career Networking
by Cynthia Wesley

Even though we're not experiencing the hiring 'Frenzy' of a few years ago--- Companies are still hiring! I get calls from employers all over the country asking for referrals each week-BEFORE they dig through the stack of resumes on their desk.
Studies show that companies hire from referrals up to 50% of the time. So if you're taking a passive approach to locating the position you want, including answering company internet listings, newspaper ads, or signing up on job boards - you might find an opportunity, but your search may take a while. Opportunities may come to those who wait, but only the opportunities that are left over from those who hustle. SO WHAT'S THE ANSWER !!!???
Don't rely on luck .Be ProActive!
NETWORK!
NETWORK!!
NETWORK!!!

Talking to the people you know in your circle is ONLY the first step to networking. Successful networking requires building and growing your current circle of 'Who you Know'. Attend events where you can talk with other professionals you wouldn't ordinarily meet. Get involved with the organization and take a lead role to increase your visibility.
Lydia Jenkins, CEO of Profectionals, a Human Resource Management Consulting Firm, says, "Its not Who You Know, but Who Knows You." People are more willing to refer you to the contacts they've spent time cultivating, once they've interacted with you and feel comfortable that you would handle the lead appropriately. People who are getting the exciting career opportunities in today's market are heavily networked with other professionals who refer them. They have networked to build and develop strong professional relationships, and are being offered career opportunities before they are even posted.

If you're working, schedule networking events into your monthly calendar, just to stay current. If you're in transition or looking for a new opportunity, networking events or activities should be included your weekly schedule. Focus your time and energy on networking events and activities that will give you the largest return on the time investing. Collect information and resources from outside of your usual network, which will help you uncover those hidden jobs that are never advertised.

Success comes to the person who gives more than they receive. Stephen Covey writes in Habits of Highly Effective People, always 'Think Win / Win'. In other words, when you're meeting a new business associate, first focus on what's important to them, then ask for the information that you need.

If you present yourself appropriately, most people will go out of their way to help you. Your responsibility is to approach them in a way that helps them to help you instead of creating more work for them.

Here are some networking follow-up tips: Approach people in a way that acknowledges that their time is limited; work on scheduling an appointment at a time and location that is best for them. Establish how much time you'll require at your meeting, and stick to your time commitment. Use your meeting time wisely. Be prepared with questions that indicate you've done your homework. Be clear in communicating what you need. Pay attention to their reactions if they seem reluctant to respond to certain questions and then back off. Send a Thank You note for their time, and if they've given you a lead or information to help, contact them with the results.

The saying goes, 'Successful people do what others won't'. Networking is your best vehicle to stay current or to secure new opportunities quickly. There are opportunities just waiting for YOU! All you have to do is position yourself to be in the 'right' place at the 'right' time to take full advantage of them!