IT INVOLVES TWO IDEAS
- Talking to people gets jobs.
- Most job openings are filled by word-of-mouth (estimates range up to 90%), before advertisements and recruiters get into the picture.
THE GOAL IS
To move into the hidden, unadvertised job market using every avenue available - primarily contact with other people.
THE BASIC STEPS
Building a Base of Contacts
Remember: You are trying to get information from these people, not necessarily a job. Asking friends or associates for a job outright can put them off and make you sound over-anxious or desperate.
Start by talking with friends and close associates. Even if they are not employed in your field they may have career information and contacts that can be useful.
Base your approach on how well you know and trust each person. Let him or her know you are looking for a job and that you would appreciate advice, ideas, and suggestions. Bring up the subject of your job hunt in general, then ask if you can sit down to discuss it later. This is to enable your friend/acquaintance to prepare in advance.
Don't be afraid to call people you have not talked with in a long time; most people are flattered when asked for advice.
Be open and go into details about the work and organizations that interest you.
Expanding Your Contacts
Talking with people you know will increase your confidence and prepare you to contact acquaintances you have met through professional organizations, within your company, and in other companies and groups.
You never know who can help you. Talk with as many people as you possibly can. Quality and quantity both matter when you are developing a network.
Alumni associations and trade groups are good places to find contacts. Don't stop with job-related groups---other clubs, groups, and schools may be of assistance. Inevitably, someone made it big and that person is usually happy to help someone else from the same background.
Focus your goals and your requests, be specific in your conversations. Strive for a concrete discussion. Don't digress from the topic.
From Your Contacts Make Sure That You Receive:
- The name of another person to contact.
- A time to meet to go over your resume.
- Names of companies that might be hiring.
