Networking tips

What is networking?

Networking is making contact with others to research, obtain information and access services about career fields, organisations, or job industries in order to enhance career goals.

Why network?

The majority of jobs filled in any given year are not advertised and one of the key strategies for tapping into this 'hidden' job market is networking.

How do I network?

Establishing and building relationships takes time and effort, so you need to factor this in as a long term element of your job search plan. The sooner you engage in it the better. In fact your first year of uni is not too early to start.

You can start to develop strategic relationships by putting yourself in situations where you will be rubbing shoulders with key people in your target industry. This includes becoming a student member of your relevant professional association, joining and actively participating in relevant online forums or discussion lists or volunteering for relevant organisations. More suggestions are noted in the What employers want section of the website.