A recent Wall Street Journal article noted that only 4% of nearly
2,800 Internet users surveyed on-line found their latest position
on the web. Meanwhile, 64% of 7,400 job seekers who received
outplacement counseling said they obtained their newest job via
networking. Networking is all about developing ongoing
relationships with professionals in your career field. The
networking relationship is not about asking people for a job, but
is an opportunity for you to learn more about your field, gain
exposure and gather additional names and referrals to expand your
network. There are multiple sources of contacts that you can
use in creating your professional network, including: family,
friends, clubs, religious and community groups, bankers, attorneys,
accountants, fitness trainers and instructors, fellow gym members,
co-workers, former and current supervisors, professors, advisors,
professional associations and
COACH alumni mentors. Moreover, a meeting with a
networking contact is an
information interview.