Job seekers have heard the statistics: 70% of all job offers are the result of networking. Why is this search strategy so effective? The US Department of Labor estimates that putting an employee on the payroll costs the company 33% of that new hires’ annual salary. After a time-consuming and expensive search process, employers take a risk by hiring an “unknown” candidate. The best way to minimize this risk is to hire people they know or candidates who are highly recommended by someone they know. 

It’s not who you know… it’s who knows you! Networking involves connecting people and building relationships between those open to new opportunities and those with info to share; both parties benefit from the exchange of information. It takes time to develop a relationship built on trust and mutual respect, but when that happens, people will believe in you, support your professional efforts, and share their networking contacts.

There are many opportunities to network: social gatherings, professional associations, community events, conferences and seminars. You can learn something from everyone you meet. Start the conversation by introducing yourself and asking questions. Establish a connection that might lead to a future meeting.

Following the initial meeting, send a thank you note and let them know you will be in touch again. Send another note or e-mail every 4 to 6 weeks to share your progress and offer to help them if they should need it. An informational interview with a networking contact is a great way to gather information and gain insights into new industries, organizations and occupations.

Network contacts can be a great resource throughout your career, but don’t abuse the privilege.  Don’t reach out to them too frequently or stay too long. Be persistent in following up with your contacts, but don’t stalk them. Be prepared by doing your homework and asking good questions.  Seek their advice and information, but don’t be dishonest in your purpose. Identify ways that you can contribute to the relationship by sharing information from your research, offering impressions of other organizations and connecting them to your resources.

Networking is a long-term career management strategy. Be respectful of your contacts and nurture these professional relationships! The Career Exploration Office can help you polish your networking skills. Contact us at careerexploration@osu.edu, 614-292-3503 or 614-292-8493.

"A goal without a plan is just a wish."  ~Antoine de Saint-Exupery
January is the month for making New Years Resolutions. Unfortunately, it’s also the month when most people abandon those same resolutions! If you are hoping for a career change in 2008, contact the CEO for help in creating an action plan to get where you want to be. Information and one-on-one assistance is available with the purchase of a career package. Visit the CEO website for more information. www.careers.ohiostatealumni.org

The Ohio State University Office of Continuing Education and FIRSTLINK have joined together to offer a new Nonprofit Leadership certification. This non-credit program provides the essential skills you need to land the perfect job or advance within the nonprofit sector. Courses include volunteer management, grant writing and marketing. Visit the Nonprofit Leadership link on www.ced.osu.edu for information on this and other training opportunities.

You have received this email in response to an inquiry made to the Career Exploration Office. If you do not wish to receive the CEO Career Tune-Up, please send your request to be removed from the mailing list to careerexploration@osu.edu.

Career Exploration Office, 152 Mount Hall, 1050 Carmack Road, Columbus, Ohio 43210-1002
(614) 292-8493 or (614) 292-3503, www.careers.ohiostatealumni.org, e-mail: careerexploration@osu.edu.