Keppie Careers

Social media speaker, social media consultant, job search coach

Netweaving – An Underutilized Job Search Strategy

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I attended a networking meeting this week, and one of the participants talked about “netWEAVING,” the process of creating communities to help one another find solutions for problems.

This is not a new concept.  An article by TechRepublic by Michael Sisco explains:

The term was coined by Bob Littell, a consultant who focuses on strategic marketing, product design, development, and implementation issues within the financial services industry. Rather than going to the “party” to learn what you can that might lead to new business, you attend with the intent of learning all you can from as many people as possible about their business, their needs, and their challenges. The objective is to try to help as many people as you can. The help or insight you provide may be putting them in touch with someone you know or sharing insight that can help the other person.

This approach, which is reciprocal by design, may be more comfortable for those who view networking in a negative way because it seems too much like “using people.”  If you focus on going out to seek and share information, your return will be even greater!

Keppie Careers can transform your resume and help you learn how to network and netweave!  Our mission is to advise, encourage and enlighten job seekers!
www.keppiecareers.com

Networking – Informational Interviewing/Getting Started

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If you haven’t read my previous posts about Networking, click on NETWORKING in the Categories section to your right.

This is Part II of my post on Informational Interviewing. Read Part I to learn about this networking strategy.

How to get started with your Informational Interviews…
It is usually easiest to start with close contacts. Think about your network. Can anyone you know potentially put you in touch with someone who could provide useful information? Certainly consider using a service such as linkedin.com, which allows you to see the names of your contacts’ links and request introductions, but don’t forget your neighbors, relatives, colleagues and friends. Touch base with them to ask for suggestions of people to meet in a field you are pursuing.

Once you have a list of one or two contacts, e-mail asking for a meeting. Be sure to mention the name of the person who suggested you contact them. State that you would like to meet for coffee to ask for advice and information concerning their field or organization. Emphasize that you are seeking information, not a specific opportunity. (If you do this when you are employed, you have more credibility). In your e-mail, indicate that you will follow-up by calling them, and then do it!

You may be surprised, but most people will be willing to meet with you or speak on the phone. If, when you call, they refuse, ask if they can suggest someone else to meet so you do not lose the opportunity altogether.

The Meeting

Confirm your appointment and meeting place a day or two in advance. Arrive early and be prepared. Unlike a real interview, it is okay to have a list of questions. Use a professional writing tablet and pen. As a formality, ask if it is okay to take notes.

  • Have questions to ask and things to tell about yourself.
  • Know your resume and skills and accomplishments backwards and forwards.
  • Dress and act professionally.
  • Research – know what you need to know and what you do know! Don’t waste your time and theirs asking about topics that are clearly spelled out on their website, for example.
  • Bring your resume, and when the time seems right, offer it to ask for their insights and feedback.

Obstacles

  • Silences: refer to list of open-ended questions.
  • Lengthy answers – If you are benefiting from information, let them continue. If it isn’t relevant, or they seem to be rambling on, refocus the interview by stating that you don’t want to take too much of their time and ask a different question.

Follow-up

  • Always send a thank you note right away.
  • Always ask if they can suggest another contact.
  • Always ask if you can keep in touch and what is the best way.
  • Keep track and follow up with your network. If Sue suggested you speak to Bob, and Bob winds up hiring you, make sure that Sue hears from you before Bob mentions it to her! You don’t want anyone to feel that you “used” them – by following up and being appreciative, you’ll garner good will.
  • Organize your network and touch base regularly – once or twice a year. A holiday or new year card is one great way to be in touch. Forwarding information or a topical article occasionally to members of your network who might be interested is another great way to remind them about you and your interest.

Work your net! It’s the best way to find an opportunity!

www.keppiecareers.com

We advise, encourage and enlighten job seekers!

More on Networking: Who, What, When, Where and Why!

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Finding a job may seem overwhelming.

You need to:

  • Know what you want to do. 
  • Create a great resume that shows how you can do it. 
  • Find opportunities that may not be advertised.
  • Generate opportunities for yourself that may not exist otherwise!

That is where networking comes in.  Networking recognizes that relationships are the crux of the job search.  Employers prefer to hire people whom they like, or people their friends or colleagues admire.   Job searchers need to put themselves in the position of being that person!

Don’t forget – approximately 80% of jobs are NOT filled through job postings.  They are filled via networking.  Google it.  Convinced?
 
How do you get started?

First of all, please start networking before you are looking for a job!  Don’t wait another minute!

Many think of networking as something that happens on-line.  I’ve been amazed at the connections available on LinkedIn, and other social networking sites like facebook or myspace, used correctly, may open doors.  Take advantage of all of your virtual resources.  Keep in mind that networking happens in person, too!  Don’t forget:

  • Relatives
  • Friends (especially those in the workplace)
  • Friends of friends
  • Professors and Deans
  • Former employers and co-workers
  • Neighbors and acquaintances
  • Alumni (of undergraduate and graduate schools)

 Where/When should I network?

  • Professional associations/conferences
  • Work events and meetings, social and professional
  • Classes
  • Alumni events
  • Social events
  • Community events
  • Elevators — collect business cards
  • Airplanes
  • Anywhere, all of the time!

Stay tuned for Networking:  Obstacles and Shy Networkers and Networking Strategies.

 keppiecareers.com…We advise, encourage, enlighten!