Job Search Method #1: Develop a Network of Contacts
Studies find that 60 percent of all people located their jobs through a lead provided by a friend, relative, or acquaintance. The people you know are your number one source of job leads. The key is to develop and expand your list of contacts, a process otherwise known as networking. Here's how it works:
1. Make lists of people you know. Make a thorough list of anyone you are friendly with and another separate list of all your relatives. Next, think of other groups of people that you have something in common with, such as former co-workers or classmates, former employers, neighbors, and other groups. By the time you are done, you will probably have a list of hundred of people who will help you if you ask them.
2. Contact each person in your list in a systematic way. Obviously, some people will be more helpful than others, but any one of them might help you find a job lead. Be sure to keep track of who you contacted and to send thank-you notes to the people who help.
3. Present yourself well. Begin with your friends and relatives. Call and tell them you are looking for a job and need their help. Be as clear as possible about the type of employment you want and the skills and qualifications you have.
4. Ask your contacts for leads. It is possible that your contacts will know of a job opening that interests you. If so, get the details and get right on it! More likely, however, they will not, so you should ask them if they can put you in touch with someone who does.
5. Contact these referrals and ask them the same questions. From each person you contact, try to get names of two other people you might contact. Doing this consistently can extend your network by hundreds of people. Eventually, one of them will hire you or refer you to someone who will!
Quick Tip
Job seekers get more interviews by using the phone than by any other method. For example, you can use the phone to call people you already know to get referrals, follow up by calling leads you got stay in touch with prospective employers, and make cold calls to ask for interview.
The JIST Card - A Quick Ticket to Job Leads
Look at the sample cards that follow-they are JIST Cards, and they get results. Computer printed or even neatly written on a 3-by-5-inch card, JIST Cards act as a kind of mini resume. About 80 percent of employers say they would be willing to interview the person behind the JIST Card, even if they did not have a job opening available.
Sand Nolan
Position: General Office/Clerical
Message: (512) 232-9213
More than two years of work experience plus one year of training in office practices. Type 55 wpm, trained in word processing, post general ledger, have good interpersonal skills, and get along with most people. Can meet deadlines and handle pressure well.
Willing to work any hours.
Organized, honest, reliable, and hardworking.
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