Job Search: "It's not what you know; it's WHO you know"

How do we leverage on networking (and informational interviews) to break into the working world?

Today, everyone has similar backgrounds and qualifications, so NO ONE stands out. Networking on and offline continues to be the most effective way to discover employment opportunities and to stand out. More professionals complete a successful career transition through networking than through all other methods combined.

Networking online (social networks, LinkedIn …) and offline (networking events, informational interviews …) are the best ways to get relevant information and advice to make efficient applications.

Since employment security is currently defined as how quickly you can locate your next position, networking is one of your most important career skills.

What is networking?

Networking is contacting people you know (primary contacts) so that they can refer you to people that you don't know (secondary contacts).

Rather than asking for a job, consider networking as an activity in which you are recruiting others to act on your behalf, keeping their eyes and ears open for interesting opportunities you would not have heard about.

Networking is:

• Informational interviews, conversing with executives, managers and professionals to understand issues and opportunities. Use LinkedIn and the Edhec alumni on-line database to target them.
• Talking with personal contacts and people whom they refer you to in order to foresee employment possibilities.
• An opportunity to improve your current network by obtaining 2‑3 referrals from each new person you contact.
• An opportunity to hone your communication skills and prepare to interview effectively.
• A way to gather the most important information relevant to your employment search.
• The way to gain the most exposure in the employment market in the least amount of time.
• A proven process to tap into the unpublished or hidden employment market, where most professional opportunities can be found.

How does it work?

As EDHEC students it is natural to take advice from your elders, but it is also essential to follow the advice of other graduates. To help you master the correct method of approach here are some key tips to not forget.

How to use informational interviews to break into the working world?
Use this step-by step tutorial, written by Brian De Chesare. 

How best to follow up on your contacts? “Networking means taking that extra step and building the relationship,” says Huhman. With that in mind, here are a few tips for writing the perfect follow-up email.

Whatever your opinion of networking may be, there are some considerations to keep in mind. Those individuals who engage enthusiastically in the networking process do so for three reasons.

• Networking works.
• Networking builds long‑term relationships.
• Long‑term relationships keep your network active for as long as you need it.

So remember! Act in a relevant way:

-          Be a rock star on LinkedIn.

-          Act as a great networker, use the Edhec Alumni networking guide and our professional clubs

-          Always thank twice

-          Follow-up with your contacts

-          Do not forget to inform them of your progress since you spoke.

-          «The more you engage, the more you can get back»,

Start now !