Job Networking:
Worldwide statistics indicate that positions advertised in newspapers, journals, and on campus represent 25-40% of job openings available. At least 2/3 of the job market is in small companies that normally neither advertise openings nor recruit on college campuses, leaving 60-75% of jobs in the hidden job market that can only be achieved through networking. Although you can find a career opportunity in the advertised job market, it often takes a lot longer, and you are much more likely to experience high competition and numerous rejections when you focus only on posted career announcements.
 Networking entails contacting individuals for informational interviews. Candidates will gather information about different jobs, companies and industries to help them conduct more effective search, and to allow them to get a job. Consequently, this experience may enhance your ability to write an effective resume, and expand your professional network with the specialized people in your field of interest.
key aspect of networking is asking each contact for more contacts, as the strategy is to enlarge the number of people you know who might be able to help you get the job you want. Sources that can lead you to employment-related contacts could include friends, relatives, faculty, former employers, neighbours, people cited in newspapers or magazines and newsgroups.
Advantages:
Offers an effective way to access jobs in the hidden job market.
Fills jobs through employee referral.
Creates positions that take advantage of specific skills and experiences.
Is a great way to target employers who may not post their job openings.
Disadvantages:
Requires some time and effort to contact individuals for setting informational interviews.
Gives advantage and more attention from the employer to candidates with employee referral.
Attending a Networking Meeting
Tips for setting up a networking appointment by phone:
- Introduce yourself and how you got their name.
- Explain your purpose for calling.
- Ask for a 20-30 minute meeting at their workplace.
- Be sure to get directions to the meeting place. Tips for contacting by letter/email:
- Ask for advice and a meeting rather than a job interview.
- Indicate the person who referred you.
- Describe your background and experience in a concise way.