2/22/13, By E. W.
The biggest piece of advice that all jobseekers are getting today is to constantly be expanding and updating your personal network. However, while this advice is good and no doubt noted by Gusties, networking, and doing it well, can be harder than many make it out to be. However, here is some quick advice from the Job Hunting Handbook that might make growing your network a little easier.
- Use email and social media to connect with friends and family. Searching for a job shouldn’t be a one man show; ask the people around you if they have heard of any job openings that might fit your qualification and interests. In an email or post, explain what you want and wait for a response. Once you get a response back, ask for a favor. It can just be as simple as asking your friend to put in a good word for you or to make an introduction. And no matter what happens down the line with the job hunt, remember to thank anybody who helped!
- Connect with connectors. Connectors are people who have large networks such as professors, business owners, and preachers. Talk to your connectors, let them know your interests and qualifications, and ask them to keep their eyes and ears open for any opening that might fit.
- Use LinkedIn and Facebook to your advantage. Employers are turning to sites such as these to aid in recruiting so make sure that you are active and professional. Check out different groups that match your interests (and if you haven’t already, join the Gustavus Alumni group!).
Networking isn’t always an easy thing to do, but hopefully these three tips will help you expand your network and eventually snag your dream job.