Networking SPU Center for Career and Calling

Agenda Why networking is important What is networking? Myths of networking Identifying your network Before you start... Ways to Network Tips to Remember

Why Networking Is Important Statistics Networking is cited as the #1 way to get a job (DBM services) 65% of 7500 surveyed said they found their job through networking (Career Transition Study) People in their 20’s are changing jobs every 1 ½ years (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Ask people their stories… How the market works (diagram)

The Market Place: Classifieds/Internet = 15% - 20% of jobs Defined Positions = 60% - 70% of jobs Emerging Marketplace = 25% - 30% of jobs

What is Networking cont. u “Networking is a two-way street with members calling on one another for problem solving, information gathering, job leads, gaining role models, and general support!”

What is Networking? Getting to know people outside of your family and friends. Sharing information, contacts, ideas, resources, and advice. “You scratch my back, and I’ll scratch yours.”

Myths of Networking u I don’t have a network. u Good things come to those who wait. u Networking is using people. u I don’t have anything to offer, so I can’t get involved.

Why Networking is Important The average person has contacts. If you know 100 people, then you are connected to 1,000,000 people! In the current job market 80-90% of people are hired through networking.

Identifying your Network Think about your own network Compile a list of resources Include: friends, relatives, professors, co- workers, former employers, local business persons, professional associations, list- serves, community service agencies, alumni contacts, human resource directors, neighbors, area chambers of commerce…

Class Mates/ Alums Friends Neighbors Spouse/ Significant Other Professors Local Business Persons Former Employers Co-workers Relatives YOU  ”They” say the average adult has 300 adult connections

Before you Start... u Have a clear job objective. u Identify those in your network that can offer help u Develop a marketing plan for your product….YOU! 330 second commercial 3Always have extras of your resume & business cards

Before you Start… cont. u Research the industry. u Adjust your attitude. 3You don’t receive unless you ask 3Accept that self-marketing is a survival must! 3Use positive self-talk u Get organized for the two-way street. 3Find a place to keep business cards 3Get in the habit of reading the newspaper u Practice your handshake!

Ways to Network u Informational Interviews u Volunteer u Parties and Functions u Spread the news = The 30 second commercial!

Informational Interviews u What you will gain from informational interviews: Up-to-date, first hand information about an occupation or company. The ability to discuss how you fit into a career or company with someone who knows. Insight into how people feel about their work and organization. Important contacts by meeting potential employers or colleagues in a non-stressful situation. Self-confidence, by experiencing meeting with strangers.

Informational Interviews u How do I find someone to talk to? The best way is through already established contacts from your network. Almost anyone from an organization can be a good starting point. Materials from your research. LinkedIn, library, local professional groups, and community colleges.

Informational Interviews u Setting up the interview: Phone call - for local interviews (especially if you have a referral) this is the best way to initiate with potential interviewees. Visit the business - explain to the receptionist what you are seeking information on and ask the name of the appropriate person. Letter - brief letter introducing yourself and what information you are looking for.

Informational Interviews u Preparing: Research - read about the company, industry, occupation, or maybe even the person before you go! Write out specific questions you want to ask. Think through the things that are important to you.

Informational Interviews u Helpful Hints: Introduce yourself with a smile and handshake. Time goes quickly, so take notes and listen actively. Be certain of the kind of information you want and that the person you are interviewing can answer your questions. Ask the person about their career with the company, suggestions for your job search, but not for a job interview. Always send a thank you note. Always ask if they know of other people with whom it might be helpful to meet!

Informational Interviews u Possible Questions: (Career Info.) How did you get into this field? What is your typical day like? What do you like least and most? What is the employment outlook? What kind of skills do you need to meet the challenges of your position? What would be a typical career path in this field? How did you obtain your first job? What kind of salary is median in your occupation? What sources of information would you recommend?

Informational Interviews u Possible Questions: (Company Info.) What kind of training is provided? How are the company’s values reflected in everyday activities? How are employees encouraged to continue their professional development? For what position would this company hire someone with my qualifications? How much freedom do employees have to determine their own job movement and responsibilities? How does communication work within the company?

Parties and Functions u More is better! Go to as many functions as you can squeeze into your schedule. u Initiate conversation and try to draw out what people do for a living early. u Don’t spend too much time with one person. u The period between Thanksgiving and New Years is one of the best times to find a job! (Goodrich & Sherman Associates)

Tips to Remember u Memorize your commercial! u Always pick-up business cards. u Read company info when waiting. u Become an expert. u Use good body language. u Make it a firm handshake.

Tips to Remember u Attend those parties. u Volunteer! Volunteer! Volunteer! u Always ask if there is anyone else “they” recommend speaking with.