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Article:
Create a Network and Catapult Your Job Search by: Teena Rose Networking is still known as a great job-search strategy, yet it eludes some individuals simply because they don't know how to go about it. Individuals also tend to shy away from networking because it's time consuming. Unlike online rĂ©sumĂ© submission or folding a rĂ©sumĂ©, stuffing it in an envelope, and adhering a stamp, networking requires far more time and dedication. The results, however, can be quite different than those experienced from traditional rĂ©sumĂ© submission. Your network incorporates everyone around you, such as your preacher, doctor, neighbors, friends, colleagues, and/or fellow committee members. The object is to talk, ask, brainstorm, and seek the assistance of others that know of an opportunity or contact that you do not. Have you heard of Stanley Milgrim's theory of 'Six Degrees of Separation'ť (more popularly known by the movie, starring Kevin Bacon)? His theory states that there are only 6 people separating you and someone you'd like to meet or get in touch with, such as a hiring or human resources manager. Like anything critical in your life, you must be prepared to network. Hold a small portfolio to house several prints of your rĂ©sumĂ© along with other pertinent material. Collect business cards from everyone you meet and make notation of the place and date on the card. This information is needed should you speak with this person again. You'll make an impression by referencing your previous conversation, along with the date and occasion (e.g. name of seminar or conference). The card will also be handy when you're given a job lead. Generally the intro paragraph of a cover letter will reference something like, 'When I spoke to Sarah McNeil on August '1
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