Expanding your network

Description

When you've done a ton of hard work preparing yourself for the job market, the next big step is focusing on expanding your professional social network and using it to help you in the job field. Networking will be your best resource for finding a job. Every person you talk to during the course of your day is a networking potential. Opportunities to use the power of networking and the potential to build your connections and accelerate your job search are everywhere. There are typical networking events like job fairs, business functions, trade events or organized networking meetings - and there are opportunities in non-traditional settings as well. Utilize every situation and approach every contact as a potential networking opportunity - you expand your network potential with each conversation.

Summary

Networking events provide a great opportunity to practice your informal interview skills as well as do further research on your companies of choice. When going out into professional networking situations, you want to always remember that this is an equal opportunity for you to not only get to know those you might work for, but those you might work with as well, so be on your best behavior. Every contact you make can be a potential resource down the road.

Be personable, be polite, and be yourself.  This is the time to ask questions of people who are doing what you want to do.  Solicit advice and be open to suggestions and ideas. This is also a great opportunity to stay active on social media, building your audience and making sure your contact information is correct. The more people know about you and are talking about you the better your opportunities become!  This is the time to start setting up meetings and informal chats with professionals. Have fun and get connected!