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Q. I consider myself fairly shy and therefore, find it difficult to network given that I’m a job seeking introvert. Can you suggest some ways to build my network that won’t raise my blood pressure?
Submitted by Joey Moegrill, Milton, GA
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There are a number of effective techniques, and A: Dear Mary,
A. Joey,
Networking can be difficult for even the most outgoing job seeker so don’t get down in the dumps just because you don’t have a natural tendency towards network building. Today, there are effective networking tools and venues that can make it easier for job-seeking introverts.
Online networking may be right up your alley. Web sites such as LinkedIn, MySpace or Friendster all offer prime networking opportunities without feeling the pressure of making an in-person connection or “sell.”
Another suggestion is to take advantage of career fairs. These venues are set up primarily to allow companies seeking new hires to get connected with job seekers. If there was ever a low pressure, soft sell opportunity, career fairs are it. Just make sure you are prepared and it should be smooth sailing. Here are some ways to use career fairs to help build your network and possibly find your next employer:
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Conduct research.
Identify the companies that you are interested in beforehand and use the introduction to the recruiter to find out more information about the company, the position you are interested in and what they are looking for in a new employee.
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Take notes after each meeting.
Make sure to jot down a few notes about the person you met with and what was said about the position and the company. These notes will help you to remember who to follow up with and will be useful in writing thank you notes and preparing for your formal interview.
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Dress appropriately.
You only get one opportunity to make a first impression. Treat these meetings like an interview and wear conservative, business attire.
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Find out “what’s out there” and what they are looking for.
Some companies will be looking to fill existing positions, while others will be looking to collect resumes for future openings. Gather information about both existing and future hiring needs.
According to Spherion® research, nearly 35% of job seeking candidates used networking as a means of identifying their next career opportunity. Spherion studies also found that networking is the second most effective method to land a job with 32% of candidates reporting success. So, arm yourself with these tips and get networking!
Good luck Joey!
Seymour
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