Lately, people are claiming that networking is a good way to find a new job, since a lot of open positions are not advertised to the public. Have you ever tried networking, and does it really work the way everybody says it does? I have never tried it, because I guess I have a different outlook on it then most people do. I've always thought that it was not other people's job to make sure that I was gainfully employed, and that it was my responsibility to find suitable employment myself.

Also, even if someone knows that you are looking for a job, and they hear of a job that they think you would be a perfect fit for, would they even tell the employer who is looking for someone to fill and open position about you and your job qualifications?? I guess you can always let former bosses and coworkers know that you're looking for a job, but there are some former bosses and coworkers that I know I could not rely on, even if my life depended on it, for a decent job lead. I've worked with some real idiots in the past, and I would not even waste my time telling them that I was currently looking for a better job. I guess it's all a matter of knowing the right people who are willing to help you out. Guess I'm the kind of person who just doesn't expect much from others. I'm more independent and prefer to do things for myself, without relying on others for help.

So I ask the question again, does networking really help as much as everybody claims it does?
[Edited 8/1/08 13:24pm]

It's not about relying on other people for help. And so what if it was? You need a job, so it's silly to be stubborn about how you go about getting one.

The old adage "it's not what you know, it's who you know" is often very true. Networking can be an excellent way to find a job. I've been offered jobs out of the blue just by talking to acquaintances about my interests and skills.

My last two positions were the result of networking.

And right now I'm trying to network my way over to the UK. It helps having colleagues over there scouting things for me.

And yes, many jobs are filled before they are even made public. Networking works.




And unfortunately, kissing major ass works too. I have no integrity that way

TheMistress said:

Really, that's awesome! I don't think it's so much about my being stubborn, it's more that I'm pretty shy, and I don't like asking for help (if that makes any sense).

Imago said:

Good look with the networking to the UK, that sounds exciting!

The only reason I'm working for myself right now are because of a relationship I forged nearly ten years ago. Like TheMistress broad up there said, it's not what you know, it's who you know.

JerseyKRS said:

Working for myself would be ideal for me! It's great that you are able to do that. It would be awesome to not have a boss breathing down your neck, the ability to set your own hours, etc. etc. Trouble is, I have no idea what my business would be if I were to start one.

TheMistress said:

Ya, what she said!

JustErin said:

Guess I need to get the word out to the people I know I can count on.

Networking is not really new.

I don't really network, but I know people who swear it's the beginning and the end!

Nothinbutjoy said:

Yes, I know it's not a new concept, and that it probably has been around since the beginning of time. Lots of people do say that it works, even some of the people who posted on this thread.

some places are required by law to post their job openings for specific time periods before hiring from a pool of qualified candidates. others are not.

i think networking can be very helpful. small business owners and privately owned companies often hire the friend of a friend or even family member of employees.

psychodelicide said:

It was the "it" work phrase in the '90's

In a way though it is common sense. If you interact in a professional way when you are interacting with people in a professional setting and maintain contact with people who are your professional peers, it can help you. I do think some take it overboard though and put too much energy into networking. If you are all about networking you can come across as a big kiss-ass.

Nothinbutjoy said:

Or just an insufferable douchebag.

XxAxX said:

Yes, this is very true. The last place I worked at had a bulletin board where all open positions were posted, along with the description. Anybody who was currently an employee had the option of applying for the job, before it was even advertised to the public.

TheMistress said:

EXACTLY!!

Nothinbutjoy said:

This is true. Guess you need to go about doing it in the right way.

TheMistress said:

That too.

Nothinbutjoy said:

Nobody likes a douchebag.

Networking is an art and skill not easily learned. The concept is pretty general enough.. STAY IN TOUCH with past colleagues and others you come in contact with that you get along with and who would recommend you for a job.

I would not say that it is something you should do in trying to find a job...meaning if you are out of a job, trying to jump on the network wagon doesn't always work. It's something you should be doing now in your current job. Of course if you are out of work, try calling some past co-workers you were close to and offer to go out to coffee for a "Catch up". During that catch up, you can mention you are looking for a job (helps to know what kind of job you are looking for) and see if they know of anything. Oft times these people are networking themselves and probably know of something or someone.

I am not a great networker, but am learing the skill as I just transitioned to a new job within my company. I make it a point to schedule lunch with one person a week so I can stay in touch. This can be a co-worker, boss or someone you worked around and got along with. We normally just chat about personal thing and a bit about what we are doing at work and discuss the challenges and successes we have had. Within the parameters of our conversation, there is always talk about opportunities and next steps of development.

In my current job, I need to be social and interact with vendors. I'll never forget the first time one wanted to take me out for a drink after work (they were in town). I was so nervous, because I didn't know what to talk about. It went fine. We discusses a little of our backgrounds, what we do where we work, the industry and how we can work together. Now, I have no issue in picking up the phone if need something and I always get a prompt response.

@ LIONs (Linkedin Open Networkers) --> they silly.

Gosh, some people even make networking their jobs (mainly HR people or douchebags in general). I think it's a little overrated.


PS : feel free to write a recommendation on my linkedin profile. Thanks !

TheMistress said:

magnificentsynthesizer said:

Networking at its finest.