Do Not Limit Your Techniques of Networking

By Marie E. Harris
Program Assistant
The Career Center
University of Wisconsin - Superior Belknap and Catlin

· I have been employed as a Program Assistant in The Career Center here at UW-Superior for the past 22 years, and during the past two-three years, more and more students sit across the desk and tell me the only way they are looking for jobs is via the Internet. They possess the mindset that the Internet is the easiest and the one and only way to look for employment.

I immediately inform them that there are other ways to network and that networking online is difficult because you cannot really establish a true personal relationship. I tell them not to put all their eggs in the “Internet networking basket.” Next, I give them a handout on tips and techniques of networking. I inform them that surfing the Internet, combing the want ads, and sending out bulk mailings of resumes are passive ways to job search and these ways are acceptable, however, proactive networking is one of the most effective marketing techniques available to job hunters and a direct link to the hidden job market. Networking is self-promotion and the process of establishing “personal” connections with individuals in a position to assist them in finding the job they desire. To put it more bluntly, shut off the computer and talk to people face-to-face or on the telephone and convince them how much they need you!

I verbally provide them with the following networking tips to start them on the right path:

· Talk initially with your personal and professional contacts -- friends and family, neighbors, teachers, professors, advisors, administrators, coworkers, and former employers; practice selling yourself to them with a short, tightly structured pitch about who you are and what you have to offer.

· Ask your initial contacts for referrals to expand your lines of communication in your job search.

· Contact the names of referrals you received from your initial contacts.

· With all of your contacts ask for information, not a job. This is referred to as the “information interview.” Give your contacts a brief summary of your career objective, skills, and accomplishments. Always send a thank you letter within 24 hours after every informational interview.

· Always be prepared, any time, any place; keep your business cards and at all times, keep your resume with you, either as a hard copy or on disk. You never know when you might meet someone you wish to give it to.

· Keep your contacts informed about the progress of your job search through
phone calls or letters and ask if they are aware of anything new.

· Join a local professional organization and network with members; read trade journals and other periodicals.

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