In preparation of conducting a job search and developing a networking system, you need to take time and learn how to systematically build a personal network that will work for you.

• Networking is a reciprocal process based on the exchange of ideas, advice, referrals, leads and contacts.

• Social activity which involves simply chatting with people.

• Systematic networking is a planned and structured campaign that starts with friends, acquaintances, and relatives.

• Meet with all kinds of new people that have information you would like to obtain.

• To inform people you are available for hire. 

• To discover jobs in the hidden job market.

• To communicate with a wide variety of people.

• To increase your general employer knowledge.

• To impress professionals who might be in a position to hire you.

• Knowing how to access the “hidden job market”.

• Studies have indicated that as many as 80% of all positions are filled by informal hiring methods.

• Employers have long relied on work-of-mouth advertising, information from friends and behind-the-scenes favors when seeking to fill openings.

• Practices such as this save valuable time and money and yield satisfying results.

• Build a personal networking system that will place you in the right place at the right time to get the job you want.

• Everyone is a potential contact. The more people you come into contact with, the higher the probability of success.

• Anticipate rejection. Everyone experiences some amount of rejection. Be prepared.

• Keep it subtle. Be honest, professional, and genuine.

• Develop a plan. Success will be related to your ability to develop and follow the strategies you plan.

• Maintain contact with the individuals you consider your network system.