Networking

Networking is an important career development tool and a skill worth developing. It involves making connections with others in order to build a sort of "database" of people with whom you can exchange information for the purpose of exploring careers or job searching. A network doesn't spring out of nowhere – you develop it over time – and it’s a two-way street; the idea is that two people making a connection have the potential to share knowledge and resources with each other, if not immediately, then at some point in time.

When utilized appropriately and strategically, networking with your contacts can help you to:

• Explore careers and jobs - Talk to professionals in an informational interview, through which you can gather information about a job, career field, industry, or work setting to help you determine its "fit" for you.
• Find a job - When you have identified your career objective and are actively looking for jobs, use networking as a self-marketing tool. By talking to people about your qualifications, as well as your positions and employers of interest, you may hear of job leads and other resources that you wouldn't find elsewhere.

Recent surveys of employers indicate that over 50% of all open positions are filled through networking! So begin to develop your networking "database" and your networking skills - you will gain a valuable tool that will serve you throughout your career life.