Build Your Network: Fish Where the Employers Are

Catching fish is easy. Just go where the fish are - and have the right lure.

The same can be said for landing a job: go where the employers are - and have the right bait.

Consider that fish tend to socialize with other fish, and that they are inevitably in ponds, lakes, rivers, streams, seas or oceans. Likewise, executives and small business people tend to socialize with others like themselves, and that they are often found in Rotary, Kiwanis and Toastmasters Clubs.

Executives and small business people are the ones with hiring ability. If you're looking for work, these are the people you want to meet. Given they have their own networks, if they can't use your skills or talents in their own operations, then chances are excellent they know somebody who could.

Where are these ponds? Most of us know someone in one of these clubs. Ask around. If you don't have anyone in your network who belongs or knows anyone who belongs, hit the web. You should be able to find meeting times and places for clubs near you. If not, you can go old school and use the phone book. Call the town clerks within a half hour radius and ask for contact names and numbers, as well as meeting times and places.

The contact names for Kiwanis and Rotary Clubs are the "program directors." The "program" is someone who comes to speak to their members. If you're not a fan of public speaking, you can explain that you just want to come as a guest. The contact person for Toastmasters is usually an officer of the Club (and you may be called upon to say a few words).

BONUS: All three clubs usually meet at breakfast, lunch or dinner...and you have to eat, right?!?

You're At the Pond

Put the lure on the hook. Ask your sponsor to introduce you around. When asked what you do, have something prepared like: "I've enjoyed the last eight years processing home equities, and I'm currently exploring my career options."

There are a few key points to keep in mind while mingling:

Spend no more than five minutes with any one person. The Gettysburg Address covered a lot of ground and was only two minutes long. Besides - you will want to talk with as many people as you can.

Ask questions. People love to talk about themselves. When you ask questions, you should express genuine interest. They will enjoy talking with you more.

Get business cards. While it's bad form to talk business at the meetings, it's perfectly acceptable to ask if you can call in a couple days to set up a meeting. Jot down the crux of your conversations on the back of the cards. Follow up with that call a couple days after.

Setting the Hook

Meet with your new contacts either at their office or over drinks. Don't be afraid to divulge a little more about yourself at this point. People like those whom they have something in common with. When you talk business, express yourself in a consultative tone, like :"I'm looking to help a medium-sized company by applying the analytical skills I've honed during my years in banking."

Oh - and offer your resume or business card. He or she will either like you enough to pass it on...or just say no. Either you'll know if you have a new job hunting accomplice or not.

A word to the wise: when you go as a guest, you will most likely be asked to join. That's your choice. If you decide to join, then you will have an already-in-place network if (perish the thought) you face unemployment again. You'll also have a fresh batch of friends.

This is a particularly effective job hunting procedure. When you send resumes from newspaper or Internet ads, you're one of hundreds - or thousands. By following this technique, your odds are much, MUCH better of getting an interview - and a job.

IN A NUTSHELL: Attending Kiwanis, Rotary and Toastmasters Club meetings as a guest is a great way to meet employers.