“Networking is not about ‘schmoozing,’ or selling someone on the idea of hiring you. Rather, it’s about purposefully and gracefully asking peers for help, advice, input and contacts – and offering real value in return. Networking boosts job seekers’ self-esteem and helps them connect people with opportunities – especially when those opportunities are hard to come by,” says Myers.
Myers suggests the following 10 ways job seekers can maximize career networking in a today’s market:
1. Schedule face-to-face meetings with your top tier contact list – “centers of influence” who believe in you, understand your value, and are in the best position to help you.
2. Schedule phone meetings with other people who might lead you to key industry influencers.
3. Get at least 3-5 names from each person with whom you speak.
4. Be confident and purposeful.
5. Bring a prepared list of questions and ask if it’s okay to jot down notes during the meeting.
6. Establish good rapport by getting the other person to talk about himself/herself.
7. Don’t use the word “fired.” Keep the conversation positive and focus on the future, not the past.
8. Don’t make excuses or sound apologetic for your current career situation.
9. Come from generosity – look for opportunities to offer something of value in return for the other person’s help and support.
10. Always send a “thank you” note immediately after your networking meeting.
“When done properly, at the end of every networking meeting, the other person should feel genuinely glad you contacted them, and feel enriched by the experience. Networking always pays big dividends in the long run,” adds Myers.
Reprinted by permission of Ford R. Myers, a nationally-known Career Coach and author of “Get The Job You Want, Even When No One’s Hiring.” Download your free bonuses now at http://www.careerbookbonuses.com.