Step Three Search: Connecting

Most people get jobs because they "have connections." This isn't "cheating." It's the best way to find work. Connecting is the process of giving and receiving in all your relationships. Connecting means knowing people, helping them and letting them help you. And it goes on before, during and after the job hunt: job hunting simply makes the process more deliberate.

Who

Connect with everyone you know and meet, including:

• friends;
  
  
• family;
  
  
• your neighbors, hairdresser, grocery store manager;
  
  
• your children's teacher's and friends' parents;
  
  
• everyone those people know.

Focus especially on people who work in the fields or organizations where you want to work.

How

During the job search, connect with a purpose.

• Tell everyone you know and meet about your job search and where you're applying.
  
  
• Ask if they know anyone who might have information about openings.
  
  
• Meet as many new people as possible. Accept all invitations to social gatherings and be open-minded.
  
  
• Do volunteer work; it's a great way to make contacts.
  
  
• Join professional organizations in your field.
  
  
• Schedule information interviews (see Information Interviews).
  
  
• Promptly return every phone call you receive.
  
  
• Keep track of every person you meet. Write notes to remind you of opportunities, shared interests and any follow-up you need to do (see Tracking).

• Be honest, respectful and responsible with each person you meet — don't use anyone.
  
  
• Be genuine!
  
  
• Ask for help: Be specific about what you need (e.g., information or a referral) and ask for only one thing at a time.
  
  
• Set and keep goals, such as "I will make three contacts today."
  
  
• Put others' opinions in perspective (their experience may not paint the whole picture).
  
  
• Put others' needs first — meet where and when they want.
  
  
• Be appreciative, e.g., do a favor for someone who really helps you or pay for their lunch.
  
  
• Send thank you notes and follow-up letters after meeting with someone.
  
  
• When you yourself refer someone to a friend, notify your friend and thank him in advance.
  
  
• Update the people who have helped you on your progress.
  
  
• Keep making and maintaining connections once you're employed; it makes the next job hunt easier.
  
  
• Stay in contact with emails, calls, holiday greetings.