Networking your way to a career

I’m still knee-deep looking for my purpose in life, but for this column, I am taking a break from telling you about my adventures in job hunting. Instead, I want to tell you about a recent job panel I attended. The event, optimistically labeled “The 2010 Recovery: Best Jobs for the Future Economy,” was co-sponsored by Y Gen Out Loud and campus2careers. Since I write for Y Gen Out Loud, I figured I should see what was up.

The panelists included Texas State Rep. Eddie Rodriguez, Colin Pope, editor Austin Business Journal, Jay Whitchurch, CEO, campus2careers, Nathan Green, President, campus2careers, Kate McLagan, VP Client Services, Right Management, and Drew Scheberle, Senior Vice President, Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce.  The moderator was Andy Langer, a DJ with KGSR-FM and contributor to Esquire.

I know what you’re thinking. Even though I’m part of the Y Gen team, why did I spend a Wednesday evening listening to yet more people tell me how to find a job? And believe me, that question definitely ran through my head. But, the information I learned and the people I met have made me think twice about my job search from here on out.

The good news is, it’s not all doom and gloom. The economy and job market are picking up, albeit slowly. And to prepare for the return of businesses hiring, here’s what the panel suggested – Networking. I realize this isn’t an earth-shattering pronouncement, but it really works. It did for me just last week. It’s all about putting yourself out there. Don’t be afraid to approach people, shake their hands, set up informational meetings, and distribute your business cards.

Business cards? Yes. They’re not just for the employed anymore. Some call them informational or contact cards. It’s better to have cards pre-printed with your name, e-mail address, and phone number than write that information on a napkin that’s easily lost or misplaced. Your card also makes the statement that you are proactive and professional.

But handing out your cards alone doesn’t further your job search. Arranging informational meetings are key to finding employment. Identify companies that you want to work for, go to their websites and look for people who are in the positions and departments you want to be in. Then just call them up and invite them for coffee or lunch. Most people love to give advice, and these folks will be flattered that you approached them to seek their guidance in finding work.

This shows you’re motivated and driven to find a career, attributes that won’t be forgotten. Even if their company isn’t hiring at the moment, they will know you and will keep you in mind for future openings. And make sure you send an e-mail “thank you” within 24 hours after the meeting. It may not be an official interview, but you still need to adhere to the rules, especially since these people are giving their time when they really don’t have to.

And the panelists taught me there is one more thing I should be doing every day. Treating every outing as a potential networking situation. At the panel event, I met several people that I will be contacting in the next few weeks to ask for their ideas and direction in my ongoing job search. You never know where a new perspective might take you.

Every day brings new opportunities, new chance meetings, for us to find our dream career. And that’s the main lesson I will take away from the job panel.

Tags: campus2careers, Economy, Job Panel, Networking, Unemployment, Y Gen Out Loud

Category: Commentary