Career Services Department Thank you for attending the “Y” Workshop! Networking as Easy as 123….. Lead by: Homa Aimen

What is Networking?  Networking is the art of building alliances.  Networking starts long before a job search, and you probably don't even realize you are doing it.

Who Makes up Your Network?  Everyone in your life is part of your network.  Family  Friend  Neighbors  Suppliers  Clients  Co-workers  Classmates  Etc.

Why Network?  Personal contacts/networking are consistently the largest single sources of accepted jobs.  35%-48% of grads got their jobs through networking.

What are the rules?  Don't ask flat out for a job. Ask for help and advice.  Have good manners and good interpersonal skills.  Be positive. Even if job searching is getting you down, don't let it show.  Be articulate. Tell what you know about the career field you're pursuing, and ask intelligent questions to learn what you don't know.  Be yourself — your best, aspiring-to-be-a-professional self. Good manners and appropriate conduct will help you build allies.

When are you networking? When:  attend professional or trade association meetings  talk to other parents when attending sporting or music events  volunteer for a local park "clean-up" day  visit with other members of your social clubs or religious groups  talk to your neighbors  strike up a conversation with someone else waiting at the coffee shop  post messages in chat rooms  talk to sales persons who you visit

Number 1 way to get a new job is to …….  Is to Network…  "80% of the jobs available never get advertised  This is how you find them and get them!

What Networking Isn't  Networking does not have to be a carefully- choreographed process of meeting and greeting people. It's much better done on a more informal basis, but remember that networking is always a two-way street.

How Do I Network Using the Internet, and Why?  The Internet can be a great way to begin those casual relationships that turn into wonderful networking opportunities.

Advantages of Online Networking  There are thousands of discussion groups and community forums covering hundreds of subjects.  You can "break the ice" before meeting someone in person.  You can listen, engage, or be engaged as you wish. No one can see you sweat, and you don't have to feel like a wallflower since no one can see you standing off by yourself.  Many recruiters are lurking the lists to find potential candidates

Disadvantages  Networking online is just as difficult as networking in person!  In fact, it may be harder because you can't really establish a true personal relationship online.  First impressions count even more. Be very careful with your first public posting.  Your online behavior matters more than you think. Don't be a jerk, and I really mean it!

Where to Network Online  Chat rooms  Web forums  Social Networking websites come in.

Where to Network Online  Numerous web sites and online services like the Vault.com Career Discussions and AOL's People Connection offer you the opportunity to create your own virtual meeting space. LinkedIn and Networking for Professionals and etc. Vault.com Career DiscussionsAOL's People ConnectionLinkedInNetworking for Professionals

Thank you! Career Services Department Networking As Easy As 123 Homa Aimen