YOU NETWORK ALL OF THE TIME

Do you realize that you network all of the time? If not, be aware that you do. Consider the following activities and events: Giving resumes to friends, former co-workers, relatives, neighbors, people you have met on a cold call, in a coffee shop, etc. The list can go on.

We stress that 61% of people get a job through networking. Your next job most likely will come from your network. This section of the guidebook tells you all about how to build and maintain your network. Look at the suggestions here and decide what will work for you.

We also network in other ways:

* Anytime we let someone know we are looking for a job, we are networking.

* Attending networking groups such as Christian Career Circle.

* Cold calls to potential employers – whether in person or by phone.

* Computer networking - we post resumes and access job openings.

* Contacting a headhunter.

* Contacting a temp agency or private employment agency.

* Meeting interviewers and peers at Career Fairs.

* People we meet at Informational Interviews.

* People we meet in coffee shops.

* People we meet when targeting a company.

* Visits to College Alumni/Placement Centers.

* Visits to Colorado Workforce Centers.

WHY ARE WE LOOKING AT ALL OF THIS: So that we realize the importance of networking of all types, as well as HOW WELL-PREPARED WE ARE TO NETWORK CONSTANTLY - which is what it takes to become employed.

THINGS WE NEED TO DO TO BE PREPARED FOR CONSTANT NETWORKING:

* A positive and upbeat attitude. Attitude always shows.

* A 30-second elevator speech - have one prepared that you are ready to use.

* Be prepared mentally to interview at all times. Be ready to sell yourself.

* Business cards - make one and have some with you at all times.

* Dress up. If you are job searching, you never know when you will contact a potential employer or person who can help you. Always dress neatly and maybe even keep a sports jacket or coat in your car to slip on if needed.

* Resumes - carry some with you in a folder that you can keep with you at all times as well as letters of recommendation.

ARE YOU WELL-PREPARED FOR YOUR NETWORKING EFFORTS? THINK OF WHAT ELSE YOU CAN DO TO BE PREPARED TO SUCCESSFULLY NETWORK.

Bob Raikes, National Certified Career Counselor