corporateandme.com
Let's Get America Back to Work and Working Right!
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Let's talk about networking while searching for an internship or permanent job. Most of us are familiar with the old-fashioned ways; hitting the internet (ie. classifieds, Craigslist, Monster, LinkedIn), telling a few friends, asking parents to make some calls, contacting your school's Career Services Department, alumni organizations, etc. But today, 80% of new jobs are found through networking. And if you're not familiar with creating opportunities utilizing social networks like Facebook and LinkedIn, you can be left in the dust!
First of all, GET OUT THERE! No one comes knocking at your door to offer you the perfect job. Watching DVD's or spending time on the latest Facebook game might be fun, but come the weekend, when your friends are talking about their jobs, your self-esteem is going to take a BEATING. I'm not saying you can't have a life. Just make sure your world isn't a land of missed opportunities. At the very least, you shoud be able to boast a list of accomplishments each and every day. And though we have the benefit of "getting out there" in person or on-line, I suggest a mix of both. HERE ARE A FEW QUICK AND SIMPLE WAYS TO START BUILDING YOUR NETWORK! First: Begin every business day with a list of five tasks to further your job search. At the end of the day, you'll have a list of accomplishments which is great for morale. Anything left undone, should be added to the list for the next day. This is a great method to keep apprised of your progress. Second: This is a powerful strategy that is simple to implement. Watch how easily you double or triple the size of your network with this simple exercise. Create a CORE group of people to tell you are seeking employment. Your CORE consists of your closest friends and family members, people you should feel comfortable asking to mention your search to one or more people THEY know. Be very specific about the type of job you want. Your Uncle Joe won't be thrilled if he pulled strings to land you a landscaping job and after the fact, you inform him you were targeting an office position. Write down everone's names and the date you asked for help. You must reconnect with each member of your core every two or three weeks as a reminder throughout your search, since people are focused on their own lives, and especially distracted around the holidays. Be certain to join the corporateandme.com fan page on Facebook for the "Monday Morning Weekly Shout", a place where you can post about your job search, business or cause and help others with your input, as well. When you become gainfully employed, don't forget to go back and thank everyone for their help. Show gratitude and you can be comfortable asking for assistance again down the road. Calling in favors should be reserved for critical times ONLY. Helen Grell-Rotante |