Statistics tell us that very few jobs come from newspapers, classified ads or employment agencies. In fact, most of them are found through contacts. Start by marketing yourself. "Who you know" will get you to the door step. "What you know" will get you through the door.

How do you market yourself

The first step in marketing yourself is to tap into your network. Your goal is to find contacts that will lead you to employment. Everyone knows at least 100 people. These are friends, family and acquaintances. They are the greatest place to start because you know them and they know you. You may need to go further by joining professional and/or community organizations, such as volunteer groups, service clubs and business associations.

How do you get yourself connected?

A networking statement reflects who you are and the type of work that you want to do. Let's look at one Ingrid Svenson created. She would use this one when meeting someone new.

Hi
I'm Ingrid Svenson. I'm very handy at cleaning and enjoy meeting people. I'd like to find a job helping out in a restaurant that is on a public transportation route.

A networking statement is:
1) Simply stated
2) Short
3) Jargon free
4) Memorable

Where do you use your networking statement?

• Friends
• Family
• Social events
• Previous employers
• Volunteer organizations
• School (teachers and students)
• Clubs
• Case workers
• Associations
• Previous co-workers

Your keys to networking success

• Practice your networking statement until it feels comfortable for you.
• Work at starting and building a network - it will be with you all of your life.
• Never dismiss a contact as someone who is not beneficial to you.

What do you do now?

• Contact at least 3 people every day.
• Join organizations or attend functions where you can network.
• Work on giving and getting referrals.

The 7th Essential is ...

A memorable networking statement.