Thursday, June 28, 2012

Uncomfortable networking with family friends


I know I should be networking with everybody possible, but I feel uncomfortable contacting family friends.  I feel like I’m imposing on them.  And it makes it look like I can’t get a job on my own.

1 comment:

USDCareerBlog said...

This is a common concern. Let’s start with your concern that contacting people you know makes it seem like you can’t get a job on your own. We would counter by saying that this is in fact one of the best ways there is to get a job on your own! Contacting people (i.e., networking) is how many applicants get their foot in the door and get interviews. So you’re simply doing what savvy job searchers have done for generations – networking.

As far as imposing – ask yourself how you’d react if five or ten years from now a college senior you know approached you about opportunities. Chances are you’d take it as a compliment that someone values your knowledge and experience enough to reach out. If you could help, you probably would. So why not allow these people you know the same opportunity! They can choose to respond, to offer their expertise, to point you in the right direction. And if they can’t help, or don’t want to – that’s fine also. You need to cast a wide net in your job search.