HITC Life's career expert, Steven D'Souza, teams up with a top recruiter, Nathan John, to share practical tips on effective networking. As they remind us: 'we frighten what we chase'.

Networking for a job should not start when you are desperately looking to move, as we frighten what we chase. We are firm believers that networking is something that should be constantly happening in the background, and relationships are best nurtured when you don’t need anything.

Most major organisations are encouraging their managers and recruiting teams to look at ways to directly source their new hires, rather than paying costly agency fees. Many run an employee referral scheme whereby employees receive a small bonus for introducing people to the company. Networking is a smart way to leverage these opportunities.

Our tips for being sourced through a network are as follows:

• Ask your friends to look at their intranets to see what open positions they have at their companies and ask them to refer you. Often referrals through employee recommendations are guaranteed at least a consideration or initial chat.
• If you are keen on a particular organisation, then find out the name of the divisional manager and compose an email expressing your interest in meeting for an informal coffee to see if there is common ground.
• Try to network with the people who are employed in similar roles to you at your competitors.
• If you have previously interviewed with a company, then keep in touch periodically to see if situations have changed.

And as important are things to avoid:

• Be cautious about submitting your full details to the database sections of internet job boards. Your own employer may have access to these databases and believe me, it is always a difficult situation when we find an ideal candidate for the job and it’s already theirs!
• Avoid registering with multiple agencies. There is nothing more damaging to your own brand than when agencies are having arguments with employers over 'candidate ownership.'
• Don’t go with the first head-hunter who you tells you they can get you an increase. Meet with them to establish their credibility and interest in furthering your career, rather than making a quick fee.
• Don’t be a stalker. Be proactive, but don’t be over the top.

Steven and Nathan will be back next week with 'How to Get Head Hunted'.

Here Is The Writer : Steven D'Souza

Steven D'Souza is the bestselling author of Brilliant Networking, which was featured in the Independent's "Success at Work" series, and recommend by the Times and The Telegraph. He has spoken at conferences and events throughout the world on subjects
as wide as diversity, networking and organisational effectiveness.

view more articles by Steven D'Souza

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