the magic of networking

Last week I applied for a web copy writing job. As part of the application process I was asked to write an article on the magic of networking. The other criteria for the article were these. Keep it short, no more than 230 words, and write it for someone who would be looking for work.
Easy enough I think.
The hardest part was keeping it under 230 words. Talk about a lesson in conciseness. Since I had been looking for work for some time the topic was fresh in my head, I did look up a few ideas and only had to edit once before I felt good about it.
this is that article.


The Magic of Networking

Generally when asked how someone landed their ideal job it was because of someone they knew who was in the know. This is the true magic of networking. Start by making a list of people who think highly of you. Manage that list by thinking who will be the most influential and who have the biggest networks themselves. Your parents may be your biggest fans, but they may not know about your skills as, say a writer, or have the biggest network.

When you start meeting people don’t immediately jump into a pitch about yourself. Networking to find a job is a process of discovery and matching your talents to organizations that need your help. It doesn’t matter how talented you are if you aren’t talking to people who need those skills.

One of the best networking tools is the weak tie. All of your friends know you are looking for a job, but it is your friend Mike’s co-worker who will help you get the job. Mike is your weak tie to an untapped social network. At a company social Mike meets a co-workers son who is the CEO of a start-up company looking for a full time writer. Two weeks later you get a job. Weak ties are strong ties.

Networking to find a job doesn’t have to be a mystery, but it can be a magical tool.