Everybody says that to get a good job you have to network. Talk with people you know so they can introduce you to people you don’t know so you can network your way into a juicy position.
Sure! No problem! Easy, right? Well, actually, not really.
Reaching out for help in general, and especially to people you don’t know, can be really uncomfortable for some. Attending group meetings can strike fear in the hearts of even the most resolute job seekers.
Here’s how it usually works: You go to a few employed people you know and ask them to keep their eyes and ears open for any positions in your particular field. The responses you most likely get from your network contacts are the same: “Sorry, I don’t know of anything or anyone.” Maybe they’ll punctuate the previous sentence with, “…but I’ll try.” Most likely, the people you are asking are working hard to hang on to their own jobs.
Asking members of your network to keep their eyes and ears open for positions may feel to them like you’re saying, “Hey, friend! Go find me a job!” Then, when your networking efforts are fruitless, they are followed by deep disappointment and a confirmation in your mind that job search networking doesn’t work for you.
I’m a firm believer in job seekers networking to find jobs. I also believe that it’s not just for people who are currently looking, but also for people who are currently working. It’s a process that, once developed, can be mutually beneficial for a lifetime.
Over the next few weeks, I’ll be presenting tips on developing and working with your job search network, including:
- Organize Your Network
- Develop a Communications Plan
- Manage Your Job Networking
- Follow Up with Your Network Contacts
- Maintain Your Network Contacts
In the meantime, let me know how you’re job search networking efforts are working out for you—both good and not so good. Send me a comments and experiences, as well as any resources you recommend.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Regards,
Peg
coachpeg@peoplegrowthllc.com
www.peoplegrowthllc.com
