Finding a Job by Targeted Networking - Part 1
Posted by Louis Testa
By far, the majority of job search books recommend finding a job through networking. For many people, networking is too fuzzy a concept or just plain difficult to do. A job seeker can turn "networking" into the task of asking everyone they know if they have heard of an open position. And if this doesn’t work, the aspiring networker will feel frustrated and discouraged and feel that networking really isn't working for them.
Classically, networking requires A) talking to people you don’t know, B) getting introductions through people you know, and C) going to networking events and meeting people which you have no connection to. With the right attitude, considerable effort, and a good memory you can network your way into a new job. This approach works but there is one catch – the job you find may not be the job you REALLY want. This is especially true for high tech management jobs - they usually show up one at a time not several at once. Often you will have to choose: take it or wait for a better offer.
On one hand, any suitable job is a job. If you are currently on unemployment you will find yourself in the difficult situation of take the job or lose unemployment. Any if you take the job, you should not turn around and start looking for the next one. On the other hand, the job offered will pay the bills but has problems.
Time to rewind and start over. Instead of undirected networking, target your networking to the company and position you really want. Follow these major steps:
2. Create a list of companies that come close to matching your desired profile. Collect data on each company based on what is important to you. Then maintain the list and keep it sorted by best fit to your needs.
3. Use your top ranked companies as your networking targets. Focus on networking into them by getting introductions to employees and then to hiring managers.
4. Land the job you really want.
More in these steps in follow-on articles.
Comments