Unit 4 Career Networking

Key Terms Networking: the building up or maintaining of informal relationships, especially with people whose friendship could bring advantages such as job or business. (Encarta Dictionary:English (North America),in Microsoft Word tools). Social networking: A process for helping make connections with other people, developing a personal career "brand" identity, and maintaining a good online reputation.

Networking Do you currently network? What are some opportunities for networking? How can you build your network?

Don’t be ashamed to ask for help. A network friend can give you leads, generate ideas, and steer you in the right direction. They can listen, help you organize your thoughts, cheer you up, and make you face reality.

Critical Career Networking Tips The U.S. Department of Labor says that only about 5 percent of people obtain jobs through the "open" job market -- consisting primarily of help-wanted ads on the Internet and in print publications. Another 24 percent obtain jobs through contacting companies directly -- the cold- contact method of job-hunting.

Critical Career Networking Tips Twenty-three percent obtain jobs through such means as employment agencies, college career-services offices and executive-search firms. The remaining 48 percent -- nearly half of all job hunters, obtain their jobs through referrals -- that is word of mouth.

Networking is a two-way street. You may need help one day; you may give help on another. Network contacts should be nurtured, even when not needed. Stay in touch with your contacts on a regular basis. Treat networking like you do your friendships, with care and respect.

Important Facts A majority of job vacancies are never advertised. One of the best ways to begin building or to enhance your network connections is through professional organizations.

Networking Cards What is the purpose of a networking card? What information should be included?

How Can You Network? Guest Speakers Creating an Online Network Give Your Resume to People Start Networking in the Summer Meet with at Least 60 People During Your Job Search Join Toastmasters to Overcome Fear of Public Speaking

How Can You Network? Don’t Put all of Your Job-Seeking Eggs in the Internet Basket. Cold Contact Job Search Looking for a Job is a Job Itself Having an Affiliation with a College Job Hunting is about Marketing & Sales

Professional Groups What professional groups are in your area? Which ones are in your field? Are you a member already?

Questions?