How Job-Networking Targets Increase the Odds of Finding and Getting New Jobs

Successful job searches in this economy require morecategory. It does take more time and starting
than the traditional resume writing and websitediscussions can be a challenge, but it is possible. Most
submissions. What worked in past job markets nowof the clients and seminar attendees we have visibly
leaves people waiting by the phone and computer forcringe when we introduce the idea of connecting
company responses that they rarely receive. Evenwith people they don't know. After we spend time
for the best candidates a job search in this economygoing through the process of researching companies,
seems like an exercise in frustration.identifying job networking targets, developing a self
All of the companies I have worked with from multimarketing and networking plan, and implementing the
billion dollar publicly traded firms to start up companiesplan, the cringe has been replaced with a sense of
have one thing in common regarding hiring... employeeself confidence and understanding.
referrals and manager referrals get priority. OftenImagine yourself walking through the doors of a
managers bring referrals from their network in toprospective employer not as an unknown job
interview before human resources has a jobapplicant, but as a referral from the department Vice
requisition posted. Companies have employee referralPresident, Sales Manager, or CFO. It has a nice ring to
programs to generate more hires, special rules forit doesn't it?
how human resources responds to referrals, andJob networking targets and the implementation of a
even a bonus for the employee that refers a hire.strategic self marketing and networking plan can
Identifying job-networking targets within companiesopen the door to job opportunities that haven't been
you would like to work for and building thoseposted, position you ahead of other job applicants,
relationships is a win-win.put you in the employee referral category with more
The key is to position you ahead of the pack ofcommunication from human resources, and greatly
other job applicants by putting yourself in a differentincrease your odds of getting the job.