Networking

You need to find a new job or you are currently out of a job. Your most powerful method to find a new one is your network. The classic rule of six degrees of separation applies to finding a job. First of all dig out all you old contacts and get organized then follow the following steps in networking

1. Number one rule in networking is don't as the person you are talking to if they have openings at there company. This may sound silly but you don't want to pressure your contacts.
2. Simply inform you contacts of the situation and describe what you are looking for. Ask them if they know of any companies that are looking for this type of employee. If they happen to be looking for this type of employee great you now have a good lead. Write it down in your contact log as a followup item.
3. Let you family members and friends know you are looking for a job.
4. Talk to your current customers if you can trust them. You don't want to inform them you are leaving if they won't understand and keep it confidential.
5. Call previous co-workers and bosses and quiz them on who is hiring.
6. Network with your neighbors again everyone knows a lot of people you don't know and it could be good lead for you.

The key on networking is continuing to make contacts everyday. You cannot stop. If you are currently working I would suggest making 2 new contacts or followup contacts per day. If you are not working I would suggest 10 a day. 10 contacts a day is a big challenge because after 2 weeks you may run out of initial contacts however if you are digging hard for leads you will find many new people to call.