Chapter 6:  The Golden Rules of Networking

Even when they're convinced of the invaluable benefits of networking, PIT members often doubt their ability to build a network of contacts through informational interviewing. At the outset, they claim they're not friendly, gregarious, or aggressive enough to win the support of strangers who might be in a position to help them. But once they try it for themselves, they realize that informational interviewing works as long as they follow the Golden Rules of Networking:

1. Never ask networking contacts for a job.
2. Never expect networking contacts to have a job for you.
3. Never expect networking contacts to know of a job that would be right for you.

Networking with integrity is vital for your career success and a skill once learned, can be effectively applied long after you return to work. Don't forfeit your right to ask network members for their future support by failing to adhere to the Golden Rules of Networking.

The Power of Informational Interviews

The building blocks of every network, large or small, are one-on-one informational interviews - or what most PIT members describe as the "fun part of unemployment." Unlike actual job interviews, which can be difficult to garner and often result in disappointment, informational interviews always lead to success.  

These are just the beginning elements of effective networking.  Join PIT today to access the complete networking section and see how PIT members all over the country are learning how to become successful networkers!  Or click here to learn about our Member Benefits.

©Copyright 2008 Professionals In Transition Support Group, Inc.