Networking is the most effective way to discover employment opportunities. More people find work through networking than all other methods combined. Two-thirds of all jobs are found by word-of-mouth, informal referrals, relatives, friends and acquaintances. Networking that gets results in just a few steps:

Step 1
Build your network

Who might know of opportunities in your area of interest? Use the Networking worksheet to brainstorm your network.
Use the Networking Log to build a tracking system for your contacts.

Step 2
Introduce yourself-create your "90-Second Commercial!"

Ask yourself what you would say if someone said, "tell me about yourself?" The 90-second introduction in your answer and an introductory marketing pitch in one package. It is an important part of any networking meeting or interview, since it can provide an overview of what you have done and what you are looking for.

Step 3
Prepare and practice to build confidence

Before making your first networking call, it is recommended that you prepare a simple script to help you organize your introduction and questions that you may need to ask.