Networking is the single most effective method of gathering career-related information, developing contacts within a community or an industry, and uncovering the hidden job market.

The Hidden Job Market
Getting Started
How To Network
Tips for Successful Networking
More Ways To Develop Networks

The Hidden Job Market

Approximately 80% of available positions are never advertised. Most employers prefer informal and personal methods of identifying employees and believe personal contacts result in more in-depth, accurate, and up-to-date information. Networking does not eliminate the need to use other job search methods, but it will produce helpful referrals from approximately 60% of your contacts.

Getting Started

The way to develop your network is by talking to people. Networking allows you to tell people about yourself and enlist their support and helps you gather information about available opportunities. The discussion can be formal, such as a meeting at the professional's work site, or casual, as it might be if you met an acquaintance at a party.

How To Network

Determine the types of referrals you need—are you seeking information about career options or specific employers and positions? Start by compiling a list of initial contacts and the questions you would like to ask them, such as:

• How does one learn about job opportunities in this field? In this organization?
• What skills and experience do you look for when you hire?
• Can you suggest anyone else in the field I might speak with?
• Would you please let me know if you hear of an opening?
• Do you know anyone working in this field?
• May I use your name when I call?
• If you hear of an opening, would you please let me know?

Tips for Successful Networking

• Make courteous initial contact, requesting a reasonable amount of the person’s time.
• Send a brief letter stating how you got the person’s name, why you would like to speak to him or her, and that you will call to arrange a meeting time. Include a copy of your resume, noting that it is for background information only.
• Ask for information, not a job. If you make a good impression the contact will let you know of any openings.
• Arrange face-to-face meetings whenever possible.
• Use affiliations to enhance your networking, such as professional and community-based organizations, fraternities, and sororities.
• Be politely persistent. There are many reasons a person will be unavailable on the first or second try.
• Try to obtain several referrals from each person you contact. Organize your contact information to remind yourself when to make make a phone call, write a letter, or send a thank-you note.
• Follow up on leads and keep your contact informed of your progress. If you do not pursue a specific suggestion, let your contact know because he or she may have already made a call on your behalf.

More Ways to Develop Networks

• Participate in an internship or externship and use that opportunity to interview for information.
• Call an organization's human resource department directly and ask for the name of someone who works in a department of interest to you.
• Chambers of commerce, community service centers, and membership rosters of professional associations are sources for career-related information.
• Cornell Engineering Alumni are an important resource. Meet alumni through on- and off-campus career events and social activities. Identify Cornellians in news articles and request information interviews. Join your local Cornell Clubafter graduation.