Jobs Found Through Networking

Do you remember those things called "rolodexes"? You know...the big bulky things that sit on your desk with someone's handwritten name and phone number bunched in with a million others? Well, those are a thing of the past. If you can manage all your networking through an old-school rolodex, you must be doing something wrong. Networking has become an art, and requires finesse and much attention. Done right, networking can be your most powerful asset when it comes to finding a job.

When you think about it, your network of business contacts are really a lifeline that you can use should you encounter an emergency (i.e. being laid off). With that in mind, you should think of your networking list as something that should be checked on every now and then to make sure it's functioning properly. You wouldn't leave the same fire extinguisher in your house and hope it will do the job in 25 years if a fire should start up, right? No, you'd check it on a regular recommended schedule. You should follow the same theory when it comes to your business acquaintances.

Nowadays, list maintenance can be a little more efficient to manage utilizing software like LinkedIn or Naymz. You can keep in contact by connecting through profiles, which it is up to the individual to perpetually update. What's the benefit in that? Well, previously, before these networks existed, you may have had your ex-boss' business email address. If he happened to leave that job, and you've stopped communicating, and you try to contact him five years down the road, you have nothing to go on except a bounced email from an address that no longer works. Now, if you're using software like those mentioned above, the person can update their contact information constantly, even if they move from job to job, and there is no extra effort for you to keep up with them.

This is not to say that you should just make sure you add each business contact to your professional online profile and leave them there to rot without any communication. It's important for people to feel that networking is a two-way street when it comes to you. If you add no value, what value is it to them to be your acquaintance? Ask a business associate to catch up over lunch, send Christmas cards, or even just say "Hi" over a quick 10-minute call every now and then. Massage your contact list.

If you keep up with your networking, you should never be in a completely hopeless situation. You would be amazed who people know. Your plumber may be connected to the CEO of that IT firm you've been trying to get to hire you. Don't just limit yourself to business associates. Next time you're standing in line at the grocery store, introduce yourself to the person behind you. You never know...they could be the next Bill Gates.

To get the real tips, strategies, and time saving lessons on how to land your dream job, or for more free advice, visit: http://www.carvechi.com

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The Networking Prophecy

As a champion networker, can you predict your networking success? Can you look into the future and see all of your endeavors and hard work fulfilled? Can you see yourself at the top of the mountain? Many professionals have visions for big success and use their positive thoughts, resources and hard sweat to achieve their business and social goals. There are ways in which professionals can gage their success and create a path of possibility to reaching their goals and objectives.

Listed below are specific ways in which professionals can claim their networking victories ahead of time!

Date Line

All prophecies have an expected date of completion. What is your predicted date of success? Is it within one month, one year or five years? Is this time frame realistic to seeing your networking endeavors come to pass? The best way to select a date is to make a list of steps needed to reach your objectives. These steps should be detailed and dated so that you can reach a date of completion for the mission.

Roll Call

Who are the key players in the fruition of your prophecy? Who is carrying the mantle of success or running the race to the finish line? Who or what is needed as a form of resources and contacts? How are their abilities, services and products valuable to reaching the networking goal? These are important questions to answer because they set the platform for the vision. These are workable tools that can be added or subtracted during the time process.

The Journey

To see a prophecy come to pass, there is usually a journey period. During this journey there can be tests and trials and as well as mini victories and triumphs. As a champion networker, what ways do you use to navigate through the journey? How can you sustain yourself or grow and develop during this period? Is it necessary to get a mentor or join a professional group of like minded individuals? Is it necessary to gain more training through reading books or attending workshops or classes?

Chi Chi Okezie is owner/producer of SIMPLEnetworking, LLC in Metro-Atlanta, GA. Newly published author of "SIMPLEnetworking: Creating Opportunities ... The new form of success!" View excerpts of the book and polish your professional approach: http://www.snseminars.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chi_Chi_Okezie

Dazed and Confused About Networking

Professionals, students and entrepreneurs who are testing the networking waters may find it a bit challenging on their first strokes. Networking is such an amazing and practical tool that it is important to know how to use it correctly. Being a champion at this game requires skill, talent and knowing the sometimes unwritten and unspoken rules. How can individuals who are new at networking develop the proper skills? How can use networking to advance academically and professionally? How can professionals feel comfortable in various environments? How can they communicate effectively with counterparts in order to build lasting relationships?

Listed below are simply tips that individuals can use for their first tries at networking.

According to Webster

To get a better understanding of networking, it is appropriate to find out what the dictionary says about it. It is the act of meeting people in a business atmosphere. People are encouraged to visit various websites of clubs, organizations and associations are read their mission statements. Find out what networking means to those groups and how they encourage their members to connect with each other and do business. Another good idea is to learn the basic etiquette tips for meetings and protocol. Find out the proper ways to dress for events, proper handshakes, giving out business cards and eating in formal settings. These are all common ways of interacting with others and behaving in public.

Book Worm

Take some time to read about networking and its benefits. Reading articles, books, blogs and the internet will help clarify any myths about networking and business. Select current reading material that is associated with your industry or profession. Learn about the key networkers and their character traits, tips and effective tactics. The more a person reads, the more confident they will be in their endeavors. Also, use this as an opportunity to create goals and objectives for professional and social success.

Kiddie Pool

Before a professional decides to dive into networking, we suggest attending different events as a guest of a friend or colleague. It is a good idea to tag along side a more seasoned networker and learn the ropes. Use this as an opportunity to meet new people and imitate your colleague or friends. It is important to pay close attention to their actions and gestures. Listen to their conversation and methods of interacting with others. Professionals should try to ask questions which can give insight on how to become a good networker.

Chi Chi Okezie is owner/producer of SIMPLEnetworking, LLC in Metro-Atlanta, GA. Newly published author of "SIMPLEnetworking: Creating Opportunities ... The new form of success!" View excerpts of the book and polish your professional approach: http://www.snseminars.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chi_Chi_Okezie