Who You Know & How They Can Help!

Use your friends, family and acquaintances to help you find a job; this is called “Job Search Networking.” It is reported that at least 60% - some report higher stats- of all jobs are found based on who you know. How can you take this stat and develop a systematic way to use networking to find a job?

1. Build your network: Develop a list of friends, family, neighbors, university alumni, field practitioners, professional association contacts and generally anyone who has the ability to help you generate leads. Once you have developed this list think of a strategy on how to approach those on your network list. You can ask them for leads or you can ask them questions which hint at your unemployment (don’t ask them to borrow money). Consider conducting an informational interview with practitioners or members of a professional association, and include two to three questions asking their thoughts on how to get into the field and what companies are hiring.

2. Commit to some type of career search activity daily: Develop a call list and set goals with a specific number of calls you plan to make a day. Take advantage of social, networking, and holiday gatherings. It is appropriate to mention casually that you are on the job hunt. However, ensure that you mention your unemployment tactfully. Do not make negative reference to your last job or boss, and project an optimistic attitude about your job search. Finally, in these conversations don’t forget to ask for help. Develop closing language such as,” If you run across any opportunities please let me know” or “I would really love your help would you mind if I contact you in the future?” Simple one-liners can make a world of difference.

3. Capitalize on established formal relationships: One of the many benefits of being a Bobcat is that you have free access to Career Services for the rest of your life. Call and make an appointment, utilize Career Services online tools such as Jobs4Cats or Experience Alumni and attend any of the 12 career fairs. Have you contacted the alumni association? The alumni association has a database of Alumni in your local area. Attend alumni association mixers, a cesspool of successful alumni interested in sharing career knowledge. Finally, check out professional association websites. Many of these sites have career assistance pages and some have job boards.

Utilizing friends, family and acquaintances is one of the most successful ways to find a job. A job search can be intimidating and overwhelming. However, cast these fears aside and start with who you know. If you have a good set of friends, they are willing to help you! Check out this YouTube Clip
by Chris Jones