Networking

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Networking is the process of using currently existing or newly developed acquaintances to help in your job search.

Statistics show that:

• Nearly 75% of all jobs are acquired through some type of networking.
• 80-90% of the time, employers will hire people that they already know.
• 85-90% of all jobs are never formally advertised.

Although it may take some effort, the quickest and easiest way to find a job is to network. Continue reading about networking below and then visit the Expeditions section to learn how to extend your network to specific cities in the United States.

How Does Networking Work?

Through your networking, you contact employers and other potentially helpful individuals directly. A networking contact can provide industry information, notify you of openings, or even supply you with the names of individuals who might be able to assist you.

Networking is not a one time event. It is a continuous process. It is never too early to start networking. Over time, your network will expand and multiply. The sooner you start, the sooner you can build a network that is effective enough to obtain employment possibilities.

Who Should Be In My Network?

Virtually anyone who likes you, and even people who don't even know you, can be in your network. Naturally, the people closest to you (like relatives and friends) are the best place to start. Relatives are the most interested in helping you find employment.

Begin by listing the names, addresses, and phone numbers of contacts who might be helpful in your job search. The following is a sample of categories from which to obtain names.

Relatives	Friends	Teachers
Neighbors	Church Members	Classmates
Parent's Friends	Former Employers	Former Co-workers

Constantly update these names and try to stay in contact with them. When the time comes that you are seriously looking for employment, begin by contacting those with whom you are most familiar.

How Should I Use My Network?

As you contact these people, your objective will be to obtain information on potential employment opportunities. You should ask three questions:

1. Do you know of any employment opportunities?
2. Do you know someone who might know of employment opportunities?
3. Do you know someone who knows a lot of people?

As you use and expand your network of contacts, job possibilities will begin to surface and you will be tapping into the enormous hidden job market.

Networking Resources

While networking is your responsibility and unique from person to person, there are resources that our office and the University in general offer to all students. Taking advantage of these is a great first step:

1. BYU–Idaho Alumni Connections
   • Alumni Connections is a resource for alumni and current students that allows them to register for an account and then use the service for classmate searches, career networking, message boards, job placement, and other general personal contact information.
2. BYU–Idaho Alumni Ambassadors
   • Alumni Ambassadors are alumni who care about the legacy of BYU–Idaho and are advocates for the university. They serve as local contacts for the University and assist students as mentors and a resource for internships.
3. Hub Service Missionaries
   • Located in various cities throughout the United States, these part-time CES service missionaries are called to build and maintain relationships with companies in their area and assist students and alumni in finding internships or careers in these areas.
4. Hub Expeditions
   • Hub Expeditions are a great way to visit an area of interest and meet face-to-face with potential employers and experience providers.