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Networking opens doors to finding a new job

Edwin

Over the last few weeks, many people have asked me “Why is it important to network with other job seekers when I should be sending resumes to companies I find on Monster or Craigslist?”

The answer is simple.  Networking opens doors to finding a new job. 

The other day Francisco Dao (twitter.com/thekillerpitch) told me about a job that would be good for him, but because he has other commitments, he passed it on to me.  He could have easily applied for that job, but instead told me about it AND said he would recommend me since he personally knows the hiring manager.  I would not have known about this job if I didnt build a relationship with Francisco.

At the mixer in Woodland Hills last week, two people met and chatted that they were looking for a sales and marketing position.  The gal said she worked at “XYZ7” company (not the real company name) and people were making over $150K a year.  She left the company because she says she didnt fit in that environment.  I asked her what was the company culture like.  She explained what it was like and the other guy said that this type of culture didnt bother him.  She then gave him contact information to that company.

The point I am trying to make is that the PinkSlipMixers.com events isnt about finding a job that night.  The events are designed to make contacts and find out about jobs you are interested in by people who know about them.  Recruiters and hiring managers have jobs but sometimes dont know the unique nuances of that job or company.

Lastly, networking is NOT about meeting someone once and think they will help you out immediately.  Network is about developing a friendship and rapport with others so that they can in turn feel comfortable about sharing resources with you.

Come to our mixers regularly and start networking with other job seekers and recruiters.  Our site is FREE to use.  Our events are FREE to attend. Hopefully we can help you find a new job even in this tough economy.

Thanks and see you at the mixers.

Edwin Duterte of PinkSlipMixers.com

310-406-7992.

Edited: January 10, 2009 11:35AM

Replies to this Topic

John
  • Jan 10, 2009 11:43AM

Job agencys are good too, sometime they have temp jobs to full time position, I have several job agency, last Friday one of my agency call me about a position in the law firm position. Most of all if you have friends, family or ex co worker who might know of a open positions to let you know.

Markell
  • Jan 12, 2009 11:39AM

Edwin,

Your advice about networking is right on. It is one of the most effective job search techniques a job seeker can use. There are so many benefits. As you mentioned, it's a great way to learn about the culture of an organization. You can tap into the "hidden job market" to find out about unadvertised job openings. You can also build a network that can last your whole career and even develop into friendships. And so much more...

Colette

Hello Edwin & Pink Slippers!

I'd invite you to listen, download and share my latest podcast called: How to Stay on the Grid: Networking 2.0. This is a discussion I had with Adrian Miller, President & Founder of Adrian Miller Sales Training.

In this podcast, we discuss the new rules of the game of networking 2.0 - which is about more than just using various social media tools, like Twitter or Facebook. Adrian and I talk about the difference between linear and circular networking, and explain which approach can be more effective in helping you to become a true connector. And, when you listen, you'll find out why being a connector is a crucial component to your personal and professional success.

So, take a listen and get more concrete tips on how to take your networking skills to the next level.

Regards, Coach Colette

Cynthia

I'd love the idea of the networking mixers but don't have the chance to meet in the evenings.  Would there be any local opportunities for afternoon or possible weekend events?  Please keep me posted.  Thank you!

andrew

I haven't been to the last few mixers but I plan to be at the event tomorrow.  These are a great idea and perfect timing.  I've been trying to get some of my jobless friends to come out.  Maybe the $5 martinis might sweeten the deal :)

 

Andrew

Edited: March 03, 2009 12:30AM

Greg

Cynthia, Challenger, Gray and Christmas has a mixer in Woodland Hills every other Tuesday at noon.  Great event!  Check out their LinkedIn Page "Challenger Networking Group (CA)."

Sandy

Very important and accurate piece, Edwin. The follow-up comments are informative too. Thanks for a good read.

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