Networking Rules

Networking has always been a key ingredient to any job search. But in this economy I have found networking to be the most effective tool to finding a job

I found that you can answer all the job ads you find, but keep there are hundreds of other people also responding to those same ads.

With networking, you have created a team of sales people who are keeping their eyes and ears open for you. And may times, they hear about the openings before anybody else does. That puts the odds in your favor.

I found these lists on a site for the Network Service and Consulting Corporation. http://www.enetsc.com/

Here is a list of possible contacts for your network:
Family friends
Local politicians
Relatives
Journalists
Neighbors
Business executives
Professors
Non-profit directors
Alumni
Your physician
Former employees
Your hair dresser
Former co-workers
Prominent community members
Public relations officials
Members of professional organizations

Here are locations you can go to in order to find people to network with:
Local alumni association
Conventions
Class reunions
Club meetings
Cocktail parties
Internet list-servs
Fundraisers
Volunteer opportunities
Business conferences
Continuing education classes