Networking: The fast track to a new job

Building relationships and contacts can also build a career

With the changing economy fueling a number of personnel moves in the corporate (finance) world, more and more professionals are closely watching the path for the next step in their careers.

It may be obvious to the fast-track professionals who seem to zoom to the top of the corporate ladder. For the rest of us, however, it's wise to observe and take a page from the wunderkind's playbook.

Networking is much simpler than you might think. Making use of your social and business set of connections is key in seeking that new position. It could also put you at the head of the line when an unexpected opportunity strikes.

In fact, it is estimated that 80 percent of top jobs are never advertised. And, an astounding 90 percent of hiring mangers prefer to find suitable candidates through their own referral networks. The old adage "it's not what you know but who you know" is as true as ever.

You may ask yourself, how does this happen? Who should I know? Where are these people located? How can I meet them? The answers are all around you.

Here are a few suggestions on how to organize, build, and sustain a professional network:

First, get organized. Start with your Christmas card list. If you don't send any cards, think about developing a list of friends, relatives, associates and colleagues who you know. A contact spreadsheet with names, addresses and e-mail information is a great place to start. It's best to add people such as vendors, consultants, and acquaintances in your field to broaden the list. Stay in touch with this group, even if they can't help you immediately. Soon, you'll have several hundred valuable contacts that can spread the word about job opportunities that never reach the classified ads.

Professional societies, interest groups, and other organizations such as the CFO Roundtable are great places to meet people in your field. Many groups have career information and/or internal mailing lists for job seekers and those who just want to be in the know about job opportunities.

Alumni groups can offer a wide range of social contact opportunities. Initially, you have something in common for a casual conversation or phone call. What's more, a fellow alumnus will likely agree to an informational interview, if you ask. You also don't need to attend an Ivy League school, to develop alumni contact information. The Puget Sound Region is home to many alumni groups from all over the country and Canada. Contact your college's alumni organization to search for local networking opportunities and names.

Local chapters of charities allow you to meet and work with a rich spectrum of people. Whether you choose medical, social or community charities, it's advisable to select one that you can really become involved in, have a passion for, and can support with more than a check. Volunteerism readily brings together networks for the common good. People in a position of influence tend to hire who they know or people with whom they have had a positive experience.

Once you've expanded your business horizons to include a professional network, be sure to follow up on any lead, no matter how minor. A personal note, phone call or e-mail will work wonders indicating your sincere interest and ability to follow through.

One mentor recommended that I "do good and do well." It's been great advice over the years. I networked with many well-connected people who provided career insight.  Another person advised that you should "Give, in order to get." This insight is a foundation for effective networking. 

Yes, it is the network that builds more than a career.