The Value of Networking

There is an old saying that "it's not what you know, it's who you know." No where else does this hold true than in Buffalo New York, a town so small that people jokingly say there are three (3) degrees of separation as opposed to six (6) in bigger areas. Networking is one of the most essential skills to develop and if used correctly can provide much in the way of positive returns. Networking has been defined as "developing a broad list of contacts -- people you've met through various social and business functions -- and using them to your advantage when you look for a job."

The seven (7) Steps to Successful Networking:

1. Develop a firm grasp of job search basics.
   
2. Conduct a self-assessment. An honest review of your strengths and weaknesses is vital. You should also make some decisions relating to the types of jobs you want and the types of companies and industries that interest you.
3. Prepare a strong resume. If you don't already have a resume, now is the time to develop one. You should ideally develop two resumes -- one in traditional format and one in scannable format. (Contact us to assist you with this)
4. Decide how to organize your network. This step is crucial to your success. If you have ongoing access to a computer, the best method is a database or spreadsheet where you can enter key information, such as names, titles, company names, addresses, phone numbers, fax numbers, email addresses, and dates of communication. Keeping an organized collection of business cards, where you can write notes and comments about your network, is another alternative.
5. Communicate with your network. It is extremely important to stay in touch with your network, which you can easily do by phone, mail, or email. Don't be afraid to ask for their help. Most people like helping others, and you must communicate your current needs with your network in order for them to be able to help you.
6. Initiate informational interviews. One of the best ways to gain more information about an occupation or industry -- and to build a network of contacts in that field -- is to talk with people who are currently working in the field. The purpose of the informational interview is to obtain information, not to get a job.
7. Follow up with your network. The key is keeping your network informed of your situation and thanking them for their efforts. Never take your network for granted.

In order to build a strong network, never take any opportunity to connect with someone new for granted. Take a chance and go places where you have never gone before and commit yourself to speaking to at least five (5) people that you have never met. You must begin to be comfortable with being uncomfortable if you want a network that will work for you.

One site that we here at Successful Career Solutions has found to be a great tool for networking is www.linkedin.com.