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Networking
These days, networking is a fundamental career skill. Many networking leads result from secondary contacts, someone who knows someone you know. Consequently, build a broad-based network with concentrations in your career fields and industries.
Here are some tips for effective networking. An abundance of networking suggestions appear in any career-oriented publication:
Network with intention. Have a plan: Your inner circle should be those best positioned to help you: mentors, influential executives, recruiters specializing in your career field, leaders of networking groups, etc. Keep these contacts up to date on your situation. The second tier or circle should be all others willing to forward a lead to you or scout for opportunities.
Be a giver. Look for ways to help those in your network.
Personally thank those who tried to help you. Send a personalized note or email.
Participate in the Service Academy Business Resource Directory program. The SABRD contains business listings submitted by thousands of graduates. Most have volunteered to assist fellow graduates with their career transitions.
Prepare well for networking conversations: Research before you call. Prepare questions. Plan for a two-way conversation.
Concisely state the object of your search. If you are making a first transition, you are probably considering several career fields. That's OK, but be as precise as you can. A networking contact resembles a radar in some ways: the more precisely tuned, the more defined and reliable the returns.
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