Читать книгу Get that Job in 7 simple steps - Peter Storr - Страница 15

Usually, once a networking conversation has started, it looks after itself – it’s the getting going that feels like the most difficult part. Remember these basic rules:

 Have an elevator pitch rehearsed.

 Even if you don’t feel like it, smile!

 Introduce yourself confidently, then ask about the other person.

 Ask questions and make comments about the nature of their job and their organisation, if you can.

 Turn the topic of attention to you at an appropriate point.

 When the conversation reaches a natural close, end it politely and smile again! If it’s appropriate, give your contact details and ask them to get in touch if they hear of a suitable opportunity. Use your judgement. Did the other person seem to enjoy the conversation? Were they interested in what you had to say?

Introducing yourself	Hi. I’m Jon. Nice to meet you. …
Using questions and comments to show interest in the other person	What have you enjoyed so far? / What were you hoping to get out of this event? / What do you do? / Where do you work? / That sounds like a really creative place to work.
Turning the topic of conversation to you	That sounds very interesting. I’m currently looking for my next opportunity. I’m here because I’m looking for a sales role in the technology industry.
Ending the conversation	It’s been very nice to meet you. / I’ve enjoyed meeting you very much.

For more information on networking, see Successful Networking in 7 Simple Steps, published by HarperCollins.

Where else to find jobs

It’s fair to say that a large number of people get jobs – or at least hear about them – through their networks. Increasing the size and scope of yours will help you hear about those opportunities as they arise. Of course, you can’t only rely on your network – both real and virtual – to find job opportunities, even though it is a good strategy. Try to widen your search, and improve your chances of success, by considering avenues such as these:

 Newspaper adverts: Look in all local papers, and even papers local to an area you would consider moving to.

 Professional or specific industry magazines: As well as scanning advertisements, it’s a long shot to read an article and send a speculative letter, but you never know …

 Libraries: These are a greatly under-used resource by job hunters. Some libraries have job advertisement areas, and some larger ones hold job-seeking seminars.

 Job centres: One of the more obvious ways, but it’s definitely worth registering your interest and checking regularly. Bear in mind that it’s often jobs in the trades that are advertised in job centres.

Two of the most commonly used avenues are worth exploring in a bit more depth. Many people register with recruitment agencies, either specialist sector-specific ones or more generalist ones, and increasingly, job hunters are turning to internet job search sites to find opportunities.