How to use Business Networking to Increase Your Job Prospects

When the economy is bad, learning how to use business networking to increase your job prospects is more important than ever. If you’ve never had to take advantage of business and networking opportunities before, here are some basic tips:

• Tell everyone you meet about your job search. You never know who might know someone who needs an employee.
• Ask each of your contacts for the names of three other people who might be able to give you advice. Then call those people and ask for three more. Listen to what they have to say and be sure to thank each and every one of them.
• Be willing to step outside your comfort zone. Show up in person and ask to speak with the person in charge of hiring.
• Make appointments with HR directors. At large corporations, talking to an HR person in the flesh can keep your resume active for up to six months.
• Consider self-employment. You probably have more skills than you think you do. Start working for yourself and you may find that you have multiple job offers before you know it.
• Go back to school. Sometimes a little extra training is all you need to make you more employable. Make an appointment with an employment counselor and keep it. Check out training opportunities at your state labor website.

Every recession creates new opportunities right alongside all the losses. Keep you eyes open for what is needed, not just for you’ve done. Soon you’ll be back on track, using old skills in a brand new way and getting paid for it!

Tags: Business Contacts, Business Events, Business Networking, job prospoects