Networking is the most effective job search strategy and a key skill to master in your professional career. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, three fourths of all available jobs are filled before they are advertised. Your network begins with people you know. Companies fill jobs by first looking to promote from within the company. Secondly, they ask their employees for referrals, sometimes offering a bonus or finders’ fee if a referral is hired. Next they contact employment or placement agencies to fill the position, and lastly, they will advertise the position. Advertised jobs yield the smallest probable return for your effort. Your goal is to have developed your network so that you know one of those employees and have information on the job before it is posted. Events offered by professional organizations are wonderful networking opportunities. Discounted student rates may be available.

Networking Tips:

• Prepare a brief introduction
• Create a business card.
• List key skills on the back.
• Explain your job objective clearly.
• Ask for a business card.
• Ask for additional contacts.
• Send a follow up note.
• Make a follow up phone call.

Contact/ Category	Name	Profession/Employer	Phone/Email
Identify contacts among: family, friends, teachers, advisors, coworkers, former employers, volunteer supervisors, neighbors, clergy, lawyers, doctors, bankers, secretaries, receptionists, custodians, community affiliations, professional associations and friends of family	Once you have identified your contact list, compile a list of names and titles. Be sure you note the correct spelling of names.	Record each contact’s employer, title and/or profession. This will introduce you to a wide array of career fields.	Be sure to include area codes and to double check the spelling of email names and addresses.
Sample Contacts
English Professor	Dr. Mary Smith	Background in Publishing, Professor at RCNJ. I was in her spring 2004 Literature class.	mlsmith@ramapo.edu
Uncle John	Mr. John Jones	Stockbroker. Works in NYC.	212-555-1478 jjjones@hotmail.net
High School Mentor	Ms. Linda Print	Administrative Assistant to a Graphic Designer. Serves on her town’s Board of Education.	201-555-8743

Once you identify your contacts you will begin to see how many people are already in your personal/professional network. Explore the industries and professions you have identified. Which of those best match your values, interests, skills, personality? Reach out to your contacts, ask questions, arrange to meet for informational interviews, and stay connected. Develop a mutually beneficial professional network by accepting guidance and offering assistance whenever possible.

Job Shadowing is another technique to employ in your job search. It is the opportunity to observe the work environment, the types of tasks the employee does and to network with professionals in that field.