A. Networking is the process of making oneself known to people who can provide information about job reqs, leads, personal contacts and start-up companies, and who have the power to hire. It's accomplished through the Internet and through in-person meetings in business and social settings. A networking job-seeker cultivates the people already successful in the field and asks for mentorship and advice. Some useful networking questions include:

• How did you break into the field?
• Where do you see a person like me fitting in this (field, company, industry)?
• How should I prepare for a job interview in this field?
• Who are the recognized leaders in this field?
• What professional societies or associations should I join?
• What's a typical career path for someone coming in at my level?
• What are the largest obstacles I would face in this job?
• What professional publications on this field should I read?
• Which other professionals should I contact?
• What kind of compensation could I expect in the first year?
• What are the most necessary skills for this job?
• Is there formal or on-the-job training?
• How can I best utilize my academic degree?
• How many people like me have made a successful career change? What kinds of backgrounds did they have?
• How is the hiring done? Through the grapevine? Through direct application? Through recruiters?
• Can I keep in touch with you regularly?

Don't ask questions just for the purpose of making conversation.
Don't send unsolicited resumes.
Don't waste busy people's time.

Trade shows, users group meetings, conferences, symposia, etc are a very effective way of meeting people in the field. Come, bring some resumes, make acquaintance, but don't give out the resume at this time unless requested. Just swap business cards and say that you would like to call them later about something.

Some job seekers prepare business-like cards that say Looking for an entry-level position where an ordinary business card has a job title, and pass these around.

Some possible sources of insider information about
upcoming reqs and possible leads:

• Commercial real estate agents are aware of new companies moving into the area, companies moving into larger facilities and new leases that have been signed.
• Bankers are also aware of new companies in the area, new contracts that have been awarded, and new products that are ready to hit the market.
• Restaurant managers know all about their regular customers - their jobs, their successes at work, their travel to develop new clients, new sales they have won, and the rumors about company acquisitions and mergers.
• Other professionals (accountants, insurance brokers, doctors, clergy, etc.) know a lot of people and may know someone who may help you find a job.