As promised, today is all about networking.  There are tons of great websites and blogs that give detailed information on and how-to's for the specifics of social networking, so this entry is going to be an overview of the many networking options out there.  That way, if you read about something you'd like more information on, you'll definitely be able to find it.  Friday is a great time to really ramp up your social networking efforts--you can make some last minute plans for weekend networking events, you can plan ahead for events during the week, and you can work on your social media networking without feeling like you've spent your whole weekend working. 

Job searching has certainly become media and web-focused.  Between email, online job boards and job matching sites, and social media networking resources, most people probably spend around 50%-75% of their job search on the web.  But that doesn't mean that you should only use web sources.  Picking up the phone and actually talking to someone is a great idea and can yield better results than waiting around for an email from the hiring manager or HR department.  And attending networking events in person is a must.  Again, it's great to make connections on LinkedIn and Facebook, but they don't do a lot of good if you don't act on them and never meet anyone, or at least call them.

SOCIAL MEDIA NETWORKING 

The best way to begin networking to supplement your job search is through online media. It's often easier to establish a few connections before shooting out messages, emails, and phone calles, so I recommend registering on a few key sites to begin.  Everyone today, job seeker or not, seems to be familiar with Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, so I would head to those three places--and yes, use all 3 because they're all good for different purposes:

-joining industry or profession relevant groups.  It's a great way to add professionals in your field to your network.

-reaching out to individuals with similar career interests or joining fan pages or groups of your university, your city, your profession, etc.

-following companies you'd like to work for and getting the latest news from them

You can get all of these applications, and a few more, on your iPhone, if you have one. That way, you can always be networking!  The sheer volume of users on each site that you'll visit ensures that you'll find someone to connect with.  Some advice: form connections to build your network and start conversations, not to spam them with your resume.  You want to use your network as a lasting resource that you can turn to throughout your career.  It's often better to let someone in your network direct you to another key individual that can help you.  Don't forget that support flows both ways.  By connecting with people and adding them to your network, they are adding you to theirs, so be on the lookout for opportunities that although aren't right for you, are perfect for others in your network.

SOCIAL NETWORKING 

Networking on the various social media sites will create opportunities to network in person, and you should jump at them!  Many of the groups on LinkedIn and Facebook, among many, many others, hold networking events very often.  Even if you're a first-timer and haven't met anyone from the group in person yet, you most-likely won't feel left out: "Social tools got the majority of handshakes and initial greeting out of the way-and attendees showed up itching for dialogue." 

There are also larger, industry-wide events that you should look to attend.  An example, the Wall Street Pink Slip Party. These opportunities are great for introductions, sharing experiences, expanding your network, and handing out business cards.  If you don't gave them, get them. 

THE NEXT STEP 

Once you begin networking, you're search has really just begun.  There will be many opportunities to showcase your resume, skills, and personality. There are times when you'll be asked to submit your resume over the web, so you should know how to prepare it.  One of the great perks of establishing a network is that even if a full-time opportunity doesn't surface right away, you may be able to find free-lance or consultant work, which could open more doors for you.

WHAT ELSE CAN YOU DO? 

You can never have enough information about networking, especially as technologies and practices change.  So check out what other people have to offer.  Here's one particular entry to from the "Needle, Meet Haystack" blog about job searches.  It's great because it not only gives good advice about social media networking, but explains the importance of a "personal brand"--you have to leverage your media presence to establish a unique identity within the applicant pool, and you have to be able to "sell it well."  You can also turn to the Career Services Office of your university.  No matter how many years ago you graduated, they have the resources to help you out, especially if they have an alumni program.  And if you haven't graduated yet, the CSO of your school is a great networking resource because it can put you in touch with alumni that may be helpful for you to speak with.  Here are a few other paths:

1. Social Media Networking groups on LinkedIn-they're focused on educating job seekers and employeers on how to effectively use the different media. 

2. University Social Networking seminars-often run by the Tech Council of any particular school, but aren't focused on alumni programs or connections.

3. OneWire's Refer a Friend program-a way to build your network, and earn some cash as well! 

So now you've been searching for jobs using our tips from last week, you're ready to network, but what's to come?   Before we set our sights on interviews, we need to talk about fine tuning your resume, and your OneWire profile!  So if you're not registered yet, visit OneWire to create your profile this week so you'll be prepared for next week's tips.