It's true that jobs don't grow on trees
... but trees also don't grow without some nurturing!
Building a network of contacts is an essential process in eventually getting that dream job you want. This isn't as hard as you might think, but it does take a little thought and planning.
Read the steps provided in these few pages to get you started on growing your network.
When should I network?
Start now, not when your degree is almost finished. Connections are not born, they are built, and given a little time, connections become stronger. This translates to better opportunities for you.
What tools should I have to start cultivating my contacts?
- Your own database: You're going to need to keep track of quite a bit of data to do this right! Write down names, titles/job descriptions, company names, email addresses, phone numbers, how you met (especially important if the person is a friend-of-a-friend), and any other information you have already gleaned from talking with each person. Managing that list could be made easier by using Microsoft Access or Excel: here are some customizable templates you might like to use and/or consider using Plaxo, an online address book.
- Cell phone: Make yourself available. Make sure you keep up the phone payments. When you record your voice mail message, be speak clearly and professionally. Do not include music, since not everyone will share your taste, and a potential employer sincerely does not want to wait through even one musical phrase (most will just hang up).
- Resume: Develop a resume that's tailored to what you really want. Have it on your computer as well as some printed copies for quick access. If you send it through e-mail and the format is not specified, you might want to send it in pdf form so the formatting will be exactly as you want it and everyone should be able to open the file. Use plain white paper when printing hard copies (there is no need for fancy paper). For more on resumes, visit this Resume Writing Guide or use the services of your university's career placement center. IT majors might like to check out this link for Writing IT resumes.
- Interview clothing: Keep a clean and professional-looking outfit in your closet for meetings with your networking contacts and potential interviews. Don't wait to buy one later, since the right opportunity might not come with a lot of warning! Not sure what is appropriate? Visit this Interview Attire site that explains a lot.
- Proper e-mail address: Get a professional-sounding e-mail address for your job search. Addresses such as "bobisgreat@dorkmail.com" or "mommydearest@wildmail.com" tells the potential employer that you don't know how to separate your personal life from work, and gives a little too much information than you really should share. Using your university address looks good now, but once you graduate, you would need to tell everyone that they can't find you there anymore. So create a new address and make sure you check it frequently once you have distributed it.
- Business cards: If you want someone to call or e-mail, you need to be able to give them your contact information in a professional way (scribbles on napkins get tossed). Don't print them on your home printer; the professional look of a card enhances your professional image. It doesn't have to cost much - check VistaPrint or other places for special deals.
Now that you have a toolkit, you can start looking for people. Click on page two:
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