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JOB SEARCH STRATEGIES & TOOLS
Networking : How to Identify and Build a Personal Network
Networking is the process of making connections and building relationships . These connections can provide you with advice and contacts , which can help you make informed career decisions . Networking can even help you find unadvertised jobs / internships .
Some sources report that 85 % of all jobs are filled through private contacts and referrals . In other words , “ who knows you ” can be as important as “ what you know ” when hunting for that professional opportunity . It has also been reported that over 70 % of jobs are not advertised .
Candidates are only skimming the surface of the actual job market when they job search online .
How Do I Start Networking ?
Brainstorm to think about who your connections are and who they might know . Write down the names of people already in your network . Consider people you know :
• Eastern Florida State College professors and staff members
• Parents ’ friends
• Classmates and club / organization members
• Recent alumni
Think of past jobs you may have held . How did you find those ? More than likely , it came from someone telling you about it or giving you the name of someone to contact . That ’ s how networking works . So why should you network ? Review the graphic below :
The Value of Networking
Advertisements / Websites
Recruitment Agencies
Professional Organisations
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Most people start looking for jobs from here
Employers hire in this direction
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Networking / Word of mouth
Contacts from existing staff
Internal Promotion or Lateral Move
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