Job Networking

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By Hedrick Lepsch


The world around us continues to change in a variety of different ways. We can travel faster, communicate instantaneously, and do a whole host of other things that our grandparents probably never dreamed about. However, along with the positive changes in our society also comes a more competitive workforce. While this is good because it drives innovation and results in better solutions to everyday problems, it also means that a college degree by itself isn't usually enough to land you a great job. To really get into the industry of your choosing, you need more than just a diploma: you need to know how to network.

Individuals who have worked the bottom rungs of a corporation are now able to climb in the ranks due to their completion of business management degrees or similar style programs, and with all of the successes that these returning college students are finding when they return to their careers fulltime it is no wonder why so many individuals are going back to school. One of the main reasons for the accessibility of education to a wider reach of mature students is the internet and the opportunity that online schools and courses are offering to people to return to school and complete their education.

There is no set way to network. The only thing you want to make sure of is that you're leaving a good impression with those you meet. For instance, badgering a company executive for contact information is usually not a good idea. What you want to focus on is how you can get to know people organically. Strike up a conversation with them and ask what industry they work in. You'd be surprised how many connections you will make if you just start being friendlier with others.

There are literally thousands of online discussions carried on by individuals in the field and by those who are interested in the topic at hand. Special groups on social networking sites have been created strictly for the purpose of discussing and learning together the particulars of differing topics. Such groups can be used by the online learner to great effect. The student can pose questions to the group, ask for help in learning a particular concept, or simply scan the group's discussions on various topics to gain further knowledge of the subject. Other resources include the ability to create online flashcards for faster and more effective use of study time. Additionally, there are many online services that will allow you to post your notes onto forums where others interested in the subject area or knowledgeable in the subject will be able to help clarify confusion or, conversely, where one will be able to help out another student.

Eighth- Take a break from the mainstream so you can be with yourself and your thoughts for a while. The rush and the grind really can affect your ability to hold on to your creativity. Ninth- Writing is a good way to get feelings out and also ideas that are "out there". It may be tough to get in the habit but it will get easier with time.

The most important point to remember while you are networking is to be yourself. Some people get so focused on their efforts to get their dream job that they misrepresent themselves while talking to others. What they often forget is that people can generally sense when an individual is being genuine or not, and the last thing an executive will want to do is hire someone who comes across as fake. Always be professional and respectful, but remember to let your personality shine through.




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