Networking is the most successful job search technique. The purpose in networking is to make as many people as possible aware that you are looking for a job and to get information about possible jobs in your field along with feedback on your resume, qualifications and search strategies. It is estimated that 85% of jobs are never advertised, they represent "the hidden job market", filled through networking contacts.
Brainstorming contacts is an essential first step in your networking strategy. A list of primary contacts are people that you know and associate with on either a personal or professional basis. The list would include:
-- Family, relatives
-- Friends
-- Neighbours
-- Former co-workers, former employers, former business contacts
-- Social acquaintances, people from church
-- Clergy, doctors, dentists, lawyers, insurance agents, bankers (anyone you have paid in the last year)
-- People from clubs, sports, school - either through your own or your children's activities
This list of primary contacts will be an invaluable source of job leads for you. Don't forget that their spouse/partner may also know of job leads. Make a list of these contacts, including telephone numbers.
Some of these primary contacts will lead to secondary contacts by suggesting other people you may want to speak with. Even though you may not know these secondary contacts personally, a referral from someone the person already knows is an important introduction for you.
It may be difficult to get the motivation to start contacting these people. You need to understand that you are approaching them for information rather than favours. You'll be surprised at the positive response. People like helping people; to consult them means you hold them in high regard and that makes them feel good. People also feel good if they have been able to refer a good employee to someone who needs to make a hiring decision - it may save that employer invaluable time and money. In these times people also know that no job is secure; they may be in the same situation you are and so can relate.
The final piece of information you wish to give a person whom you are asking for help is how they can help you. What is it that they can do specifically? The most direct form of help is, of course, for them to offer you a job, but there are probably only a few of your friends who are in a position to do that. Yet, people can help in many different ways. The following examples illustrate these ways, and are arranged in terms of the type of person from whom you would ask for that specific type of help.
To a close friend or a person with an important title:
"Can I use your name as a reference when I fill out applications?"
"Could you write me an open letter of recommendation addressed: "To whom it may concern?"
To any friend or acquaintance:
"Have you heard of any job openings, and can you let me know if you do hear of any job openings?"
To someone who works in your field:
"You have been working in the same type of job I am looking for, so you probably know what is happening."
"Do you know anyone leaving their job?"
"Do you know of any companies or places that might have an opening?"
To someone who works at a place you would consider:
"Are there any openings where you work?"
"Are there any people who are quitting where you work?"
"Could you arrange for me to talk to your supervisor about a job at your place?"
"Could you tell your supervisor (boss, personnel manager) about me in case she/he is thinking of hiring?"
"Could you give your supervisor a copy of my resume?"
To someone who just started working:
"Since you have been looking at different jobs, can you remember any places that could use someone like me?"
To a close friend or relative:
"Could you ask some people that you know if they know of any job openings?"
To someone who has contacts in your type of work:
"Could you take some copies of my resume and give one to anyone you think might be interested?"