Thriving in a Stalled Economy: Networking

July 13, 2011

Network:
verb - present participle;
Interact with other people to exchange information and develop contacts, esp. to further one's career
- the skills of networking, bargaining, and negotiation

Networking is one of the best ways to find a job in a stalled economy. As many as 80% of all jobs are found by networking. This can mean talking to former co-workers, friends, family, and even strangers about job possibilities. Many people are using these contacts as a way to "sell" themselves and the skills they have. Many jobs get filled through networking even before they are posted in the newspapers and job boards.

Linked In and Facebook are two of the leading social networking sites that can help people get jobs. But remember that the Internet may have a lot of possibilities, but never underestimate the value of taking the time to talk to people in person.

If you are looking for a job, take the time to talk to people about your skills. Talk to your hairdresser, talk to people at parties, and even talk to people on the bus. You never know where the next lead on a job will come from.

Jessica F.
Red Bridge Branch