Best ways to network for a job
Reprinted courtesy of TheCareerNews.com
CLEVELAND, OH -- Reporter Marcia Pledger dishes out advice on office manners. Question: What is the best way to leverage my network of acquaintances and former co-workers to gain referrals and job tips without appearing self-serving?
It's OK to be self-serving, as long as you're willing to help other people as much as you are being helped. Just remember, how you behave when networking is as important as the effort itself. Jason Goldberg, CEO of Jobster.com states, "With so many resumes coming in to companies every day, most employers rely on referrals as a way to spot great candidates. "Find out if your former co-workers and acquaintances are considering a career move and offer to keep them up to date about job openings you hear about."
Goldberg offers these tips: 1) Start building your network before you really need it. Reconnect with friends, former colleagues and alumni. 2) Keep up with your network. Don't stop communicating after asking for a referral. Keep helpers updated on your job search. 3) Most important, send handwritten thank-you notes to people who have helped. Remember, a smart net worker respects others' opinions and time.
Article abridged from Cleveland.com, and reprinted from TheCareerNews.com. Get the latest breaking News, Tips and Tools for your job search, Free!
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