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Networking continues to be the most effective job search resource. This makes sense when you consider the risks an employer takes when hiring someone; the risks are greatly reduced for the employer when a candidate is recommended by a respected colleague, or when there is an opportunity to get to know someone outside of the formal interview process. In this tough economy, organizations can’t afford to make costly hiring mistakes. While you may have exemplary credentials highlighted on your resume, networking can make your job search more efficient and effective.

Following are some tips for how to successfully network.

• Join and become actively involved in a professional association. Consider the following:
  • Society for Information Management.
  • Network Professional Association.
  •  Information Technology Association of America.
  • Association for Information Systems.
• Leverage alumni and student groups from your current school or alma mater by contacting the respective Career Services Center or Alumni Center.
• Inform family and friends of your career interests and immediate job search goals; ask for recommendations of people to contact that may have information that can help you.
• Volunteer: read an example of how volunteering helped Kevin, an IT professional.
• Take advantage of online social networking tools such as LinkedIn. Read about how to use LinkedIn for your job search.
• Discover ways to make the most of Linked In by visiting the LinkedIn Learning Center.

Best of luck in your job search!

Melody Jennings Kruzic
Capella University Career Center Counselor