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Networking

Networking

Networking can get you a job, as well as work experience or a placement opportunity. Contacts are everywhere and all around you. Never miss out on the opportunity to talk to someone.

There are many people and places you can use to start networking.

Good ways to network

  • Professional bodies or the Chamber of Commerce organise events.
  • Council-run events for local businesses, often advertised in local papers.
  • Take your CV to job and career fairs.
  • Keep in touch with managers from previous jobs and work experience.
  • Contacts from volunteering.
  • Friends and family and their contacts.
  • Through groups or social activities such as sports centre, church, mosque, clubs.
  • Online networks – Facebook, your own website, My Space, LinkedIn etc.

You will get better results from networking if you pay attention to these golden rules:

Be polite

Be courteous at all times and thank your contacts for any help, no matter how small. Remember they are busy people.

Do your homework

Research your contact’s job and employer beforehand even if you’re only asking them for information. The more informed you are the more seriously they will take you.

Don’t ask for the whole world

Start with a short meeting before you ask for a week’s work experience.
Mention the person who gave you your contact’s name – this could mean they are more likely to help you.

Think about what you can offer them

Take your up-to-date CV with you to meetings. Have a card with your contact details printed to create a business-like impression.

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