Create a job winning resume that produces job interviews

Your Networking Letter

Do you have a networking letter? Any pro-active job search campaign should include this vital marketing aide to uncover jobs that are NOT posted.

It is a fact that there are thousands of jobs created and filled that are never even posted.

Every job seeker knows how to apply for advertised job openings; it is the savvy job seeker that takes matters into his or her own hands by cultivating leads and opportunity - by networking.

Networking can make a huge difference not only in the number of opportunities you turn up, but eventually in your annual salary too!

Get your networking letter out there!

Get your networking letter out there! The basic premise of networking for jobs is this; you must make your availability known in "the community". I don't just mean community in the geographic sense, but also among the key players of your industry or trade.

You will do this by sending a networking letter out to your "contacts".

Your contacts can be considered any or all of the following "warm" sources: friends, spouse or significant other's friends, coworkers (current or former) , past supervisors, any associations (i.e. alumni, professional organizations, civic groups), clergy members, customers & clients, vendors, teachers and former classmates.

I would also include "cold" contacts; companies or potential employers that you identify within your industry - even though they may have no jobs available. Many employers will find room for an exceptional candidate when they come around.

How to write a networking letter

Networking letters must be by nature "3rd party". By this I mean that you are not going to ask the reader for a job. You are only going to make your availability known and ask for job leads, referrals, introductions or career advice.

People, especially those that know you, are eager to help other when asked. You will be surprised how many people say something like, "Oh, you need to speak with Joe Brown...He can point you in the right direction. Tell him that I said to call him..."

Here are a few guidelines for the creation of an effective networking letter:

Keep it "3rd party" - ask for job leads and referrals, not a job

Explain your mission - more than looking for a job, explain who you are by highlighting your key strengths and experience

Respect their time - keep it short and to the point

Ask for assistance - ask for job leads and referrals

Keep networking - never stop getting yourself out there

View sample networking letter

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