SMART NETWORKING - How to get more job leads, referrals and recommendations

SMART NETWORKING - How to get more job leads, referrals and recommendations SMART NETWORKING How to get more job leads, referrals and recommendations SMART NETWORKING How to get more job leads, referrals and recommendations January 18, 2013 by Career Coach Sherri Thomas Leave a Comment   The goal of networking is NOT to start asking about job opportunities the instant you meet someone. The goal of networking is to create a connection or establish a relationship with someone. As a Career Coach, I’ve noticed that many professionals looking to reinvent their career make the mistake of sending a message to others, ” I need a job.” But instead, you want to be sending the message that you’re a successful professional who’s resourceful, well connected, and who has some similar interests as they do. You want them to realize that you are someone that THEY should get to know!   Below is my simple step-by-step process to help you build a powerful network to get more job leads, referrals and recommendations…   Seek out others in the industry or job role where you want to work. The next time you meet someone who works for a company where you want to work, or in a job role that you’d like to have, keep the conversation focused on that person (it’s not about you! -at least not yet!) Talk about their latest marketing campaign or product launch, or something new or interesting that’s going on inside their company.   2.   Ask to keep in touch! Next, you don’t need to have a long, in-depth conversation with each person. Instead, when you feel that the conversation has run its course, simply say, “I’d love to stay in touch â€" how about if we exchange business cards?” 3.   Send the message that you’re knowledgeable and resourceful!