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The Name Game

by David DeJean, Monster Contributing Writer, networking.monster.com

Completely unscientific studies show that many people find their jobs through people they know. It's amazing that this ever happens at all since most people are so reluctant to tell anyone they know that they're looking for work. And the more they need the job, the less likely they are to tell anybody who might actually be able to help.

Part of getting your career in shape is building up your awareness of relationships with people. You need to practice asking people questions and telling them you're looking. It's not weakness -- it's managing your career.

Ask your contacts about three things:

JOBS
Ask if they have heard about any openings in the industry. If nothing comes to mind immediately, don't think it's because they don't think well of you. Unless your contacts have very recently talked with friends or a recruiter who's trying to fill a specific slot, chances are slim that they may know of any openings.

PEOPLE
Ask your contacts for names of people who might be of help to you. It may be a friend from another company or a recruiter at a search firm. And, of course, ask if you can use their names. Everyone knows someone, so use this to your advantage.

QUALIFICATIONS
Get feedback from your contacts. Ask them what you can do to make yourself a stronger candidate for the kind of job you want. Use this as a test closer. If a contact can't think of a single thing that would make you a more attractive candidate, or can't think of anyone you can talk to, then he or she isn't in your corner. Thank the person and move on.

If your contacts are interested in you and your plans, they will have at least a couple of suggestions. They may suggest you look at a different kind of job, something they think you'd be better suited for or something that would be good preparation for the kind of job you want.