YOU NETWORK ALL OF THE TIME

BY

BOB RAIKES, NCCC

Do you realize that you network all of the time? If not, be aware that you do. Consider the following activities and events.

* Giving resumes to friends, former co-workers, relatives, neighbors, persons you have met on a cold call, in a coffee shop etc. The list can go on.

We have stressed that 61% of people get a job through networking. Your next job most likely will come from your network. We have an entire section in your bluebook on networking and maintaining a network. I wonder how many of us have used that outline.

We also network in other ways.

* Computer networking -- we post resumes and access job openings

* Telephoning a potential employer

* Meeting interviewers and peers at Career Fairs

* Persons we meet in coffee shops

* Networking groups such as Christian Career Circle

* Cold calls

* Persons we meet when targeting a company

* Contacting a headhunter

* Contacting a temp agency

* Visits to Colorado Workforce Centers

* Visits to College Alumni/placement Centers

* Persons we meet at informational interviews

* Visits to private employment agencies

* Anytime we let someone know we are looking for a job we are networking.

WHY ARE WE LOOKING AT ALL OF THIS? So that we realize the importance of networking of all types as well as HOW WELL PREPARED ARE WE TO NETWORK CONSTANTLY -which is what it takes to become employed.

THINGS WE NEED TO DO TO BE PREPARED FOR CONSTANT NETWORKING.

* Business cards -- make one and have some with you at all times.

* Resumes -- carry some with you in a folder that you can keep with you at all times as well as letters of recommendation.

* 30-second elevator speech -- have one prepared that you are ready to use.

* Dress. If you are job searching you never know when you will contact a potential employer or person who can help you. Always dress neatly and you might even keep a sports jacket or coat in your car to slip on if needed.

* A positive and upbeat attitude. Attitude always shows.

* Be prepared mentally to interview at all times. Be ready to sell yourself.

WHAT ELSE CAN WE DO TO BE PREPARED TO SUCCESSFULLY NETWORK?

ARE WE WELL PREPARED FOR OUR NETWORKING EFFORTS?