Networking and mapping contacts
Whether you are looking for a volunteer or work experience placement,
employment or to interview an employer for further information, actively
building relationships (i.e. networking) is the most effective tool
to get you on track and onto a pathway that will get you where you want
to go. Better still, it has lifelong value for you!
While newspapers and on-line job pages have their use, the fact is
that most work placements are not advertised this way! Be empowered
by this knowledge and start tapping into the hidden job market through
making the most of your very own networks and those that you have the
capacity to create.
The following mapping example is aimed at helping you understand just
how well networked you are!
The six degrees of separation
In 1967, Stanley Milgram, set out to find how far apart any two people
were. He concluded that the average distance between two people was
5.5; hence the rounding to six degrees.
In basic terms, the six degrees of separation refers to how we are
all connected to each other by a chain of about six social relationships.
And if you understand the key aspects of this theory, you will realise
that you can be quite strategic in your labour market research for work
placement opportunities!
Very useful book and frequently found in libraries!
Charleston, P. 2003. Tap the hidden job market. Choice Books: Australia.
Activity
Over the course of a week:
- map everyone you meet and include their linkages
- ask everyone in your network if they know someone you can speak
with about your area of work interest
- follow-up and speak with your new contacts
- record each contact and work placement information on your action
planner
Resources:
Networking and Work Experience
- [.pdf | 101.02 kb]
Understanding your existing and potential relationships works toward
developing effective networks.
Business
Cards
Everyone can design and use a business card!
Exploring
the hidden job market
Many opportunities are never advertised. It's been estimated that
more than half of positions vacant in Australia are filled through an
informal network rather than formally advertised. Often called the "hidden
job market", these jobs can only be accessed through networking
or cold calling. These techniques are among the most powerful and effective
way of finding a job, and planning and practice will increase your confidence.
These skills and activities are readily applied to work experience activities.
How
to Work a Job Fair
Career fairs are often one of the best ways to meet employers from
a wide variety of fields. They provide a wonderful opportunity to discuss
work experience options.
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