Most new jobs are filled by word of mouth, says CollegeJournal.com, The Wall Street Journalís guide for career-minded college students. So if youíre looking for a job, networking is a vital tool for gathering information and achieving your goal.
ìNetworking can be done anytime, anywhereóa train ride home, at a job fair or in a social setting,î says Valerie Patterson, senior producer, CollegeJournal.com. ìThe most important first step in networking is to smile and be friendlyóyou never know with whom you might strike up an important conversation.î
CollegeJournal.com offers these tips on how to get the most out of networking:
Know what youíre looking foróspeak succinctly about your talents, skills and goals.
Be assertiveónetworking means that you are working toward your goaló advancement in your careeróso donít be afraid to promote yourself.
Curb the desperation and start listeningóinstead of asking someone for a job, listen to their advice. Most people love talking about themselves, so use this to your advantage by asking questions about their backgrounds and professional choices.
Use your most valuable toolsóalways have handy an up-to-date resume, as well as business cards with your contact information.
Stick with itónetworking can be full-time work. The best networking produces contacts that can benefit you in the long term.
ìDonít get discouraged if donít immediately find a job,î Ms. Patterson adds. ìConcentrate on new ways and places to network.î
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Networking is key for job hunters, says CollegeJournal.com
Most new jobs are filled by word of mouth, says CollegeJournal.com
