Not Another Networking Post!

Here's the scenario...

It's Monday morning and I'm heading off to the train to go to another network meeting.  I run into someone who is also involved in a job search and we have an exchange about how things are going.  I tell him I'm going to another network meeting.  That bold on the word another is for emphasis.  It means it's great that I have another network meeting AND it also means that I'm ready to find something so I don't have to have another network meeting.  I may know how important networking is, and I am a cheerleader for others when it comes to getting out there, but I'm only human and even I get weary at times. 

So, I board the train with directions in hand and head off to the jungles of lower Manhattan.  The outcome of this experience...

• I found the building without any trouble and it was much closer to the train than I had expected.
• The person I met with was delightful...supportive, impressed with my experience (which is great for my self-esteem), and willing to network.
• I walked out with useful suggestions about my resume and the names of people to contact to expand my network.

Another network meeting that helps me further my search efforts and leaves me feeling more confident that I will land a position as long as I keep putting myself out there.  Another network meeting that increases my visibility and adds fans to my personal cheering section. 

Why do I keep sharing these stories about networking? 

• Because it works.  
• Because it is a critical tool in any job search at any level whether you're looking for a position as an administrative assistant or a senior vice president.  
• Because it is one aspect of your search that you have more control over.  You don't have control over the ads that appear in the paper or in on-line job sites.  You don't have control over whether or not a recruiter forwards your paperwork to a prospective employer.  You do have control when it comes to networking because there is always someone out there for you to talk to.  If you think you've run out of names on your personal list, go to a network meeting or club.  Put yourself out there with others who are also networking and are generally willing to share contacts and make suggestions. 

Now I have to get to work to contact the people whose names surfaced during this network meeting with the goal of setting up another network meeting.  And, as long as I have another network meeting to schedule, my search is still in full gear and there are endless possibilities ahead.