Is Networking Effective for Finding a Job?
Studies indicate that at least 30% of all jobs out there aren’t even advertised. With that in mind, you definitely need to network if you expect to cover all your bases. Not only will it assist you with finding work that is advertised, but you will find out about work that is still under the radar. There are tons of jobs out there that people really don’t even know about. Getting your foot in the door and letting someone know that you are definitely interested is very important.
With that type of networking, you will find that there are fewer people applying for the same job. When a job advertisement is in the newspaper or online, there could be hundreds of applicants for it within a day. When you consider the high unemployment rate, there are people looking every single day for a job.
With networking though, there are far less people finding out about such positions. As a result, there will be far less people that are able to apply for it and that will increase your chances of being able to get an interview. From there, you need to make sure you show up looking dressed for the job, you have a great attitude, and that you sell yourself so that they see you as the best candidate for the job.
Make sure you have a great resume already in place so that when you get information about jobs through networking, you can send one. You can make a phone call, introduce yourself, and ask where you can send the resume. You should inquire if they have an application that they would like you to complete as well. It is always a good idea to send along a cover letter that is specific for each job. Using your computer, you will only need to make a few changes to key points for each rather than completely rewriting them. For tips on structuring a cover letter that can get you noticed, visit http://CoverLetterInterview.com
Networking works because you have a personal reference to get attention with. For example, if you call about a job and say that Tim from Iowa State told you about it -that means something. You are no longer a stranger, you see? This is especially true if Tim is a valued friend or employee of the person that is hiring. They value the fact that such an individual is sending people their way. They will have a good impression of you that way without even knowing you.
Instead of being just another name in their pile, they will remember you. They may ask you how you know that other person so be ready for it. Perhaps it is a family friend, someone you have worked for in the past, or someone you are dating. Make sure anything you say about the referral party is positive.
With that type of networking, you will find that there are fewer people applying for the same job. When a job advertisement is in the newspaper or online, there could be hundreds of applicants for it within a day. When you consider the high unemployment rate, there are people looking every single day for a job.
With networking though, there are far less people finding out about such positions. As a result, there will be far less people that are able to apply for it and that will increase your chances of being able to get an interview. From there, you need to make sure you show up looking dressed for the job, you have a great attitude, and that you sell yourself so that they see you as the best candidate for the job.
Make sure you have a great resume already in place so that when you get information about jobs through networking, you can send one. You can make a phone call, introduce yourself, and ask where you can send the resume. You should inquire if they have an application that they would like you to complete as well. It is always a good idea to send along a cover letter that is specific for each job. Using your computer, you will only need to make a few changes to key points for each rather than completely rewriting them. For tips on structuring a cover letter that can get you noticed, visit http://CoverLetterInterview.com
Networking works because you have a personal reference to get attention with. For example, if you call about a job and say that Tim from Iowa State told you about it -that means something. You are no longer a stranger, you see? This is especially true if Tim is a valued friend or employee of the person that is hiring. They value the fact that such an individual is sending people their way. They will have a good impression of you that way without even knowing you.
Instead of being just another name in their pile, they will remember you. They may ask you how you know that other person so be ready for it. Perhaps it is a family friend, someone you have worked for in the past, or someone you are dating. Make sure anything you say about the referral party is positive.