Work Dish

If there’s one word that gets thrown around whenever you start your job search, it’s “networking.” But what does that mean, exactly, and how do you do it? Well, what it means is that the part of the job search that you see in the classified ads, online listings, and store-front windows is only the tip of the iceberg. To seal the deal on one of these positions, and to even be considered for the upper-level, unlisted positions, you’ll have to bring something more to the table than a blank slate. But how do you go about doing that if you don’t play golf with the CEO of the company, for example? It turns out that’s the interesting part.First, you may be more connected than you think. In addition to family members, consider any work or volunteer contacts that you may have cultivated in the past. Professors from your school are often connected to many people in their field. If you’re interested in a public office position, look into contacting local politicians, journalists, community leaders, or people with similar roles.Not all of the legwork has to be done by you. There are many existing organizations that bring together people who could be useful to you. These include class reunions, cocktail parties, conventions, business conferences, fundraisers, and more. For these opportunities, make sure you come prepared. Find out who’s going to be there, and who would be most important to meet. Do some research on their credentials, and make sure you can convey yours in a quick and accurate manner.The internet has made networking even easier to get started. Online communities like LinkedIn offer social networking for the modern job applicant, letting you connect with colleagues and easily seeing who they know already. However, the internet is not a substitute for reaching out in personjust an advantage. Make sure that you follow up with your connections, as well, as you’ll look much less trustworthy if you show up out of nowhere, ask for help, and disappear as soon as you get what you want.