Who's in your Network

By: CPA Ontario’s Jenny Gilker, Employment Information Coordinator and Diana McCauley, Employment Counsellor

Autumn is here and traditionally that means the start of an increased hiring period for employers. We are going to help you get into gear and start thinking about how you can increase your chances of finding employment! As the saying goes, “leave no stone unturned”. The same applies to networking. Everyone has a network – you just may not realize who is in your network and where to find them!
 
What is networking?
Networking is the act of interacting with others, and it is a key tool used by anyone who is interested in increasing the likelihood of landing a job. Nearly 80% of all jobs are secured through networking. Time to learn how to network!
 
Why network?
Networking is not only about handing out a business card or beginning your conversations with “I am currently looking for work”, it’s about creating and maintaining long lasting relationships with people who will help you develop your career goals.

How to identify your network
Your network should consist of a number of people who are accessible to you. Remember that contacts with different groups increase your chances of opening doors and developing opportunities. Below is an example of the different categories of people who may be found in your network:

Family/friends:
•    Relatives
•    Friends
•    Neighbours

Social acquaintances, community/volunteering contacts:
•    Members of clubs
•    Associations
•    Friends of friends
•    Community groups

Professional associates:
•    Current and former co-workers
•    Former bosses
•    Members of your professional associations
•    Customers

Educational contacts:
•    Current and former classmates
•    Teachers
•    Professors
•    Alumni associations

Service providers:
•    Doctors
•    Dentists
•    Hairdressers
•    Plumbers
•    Real-estate agents
•    Suppliers

Where to Begin?
Begin the networking process by making a list of everyone you have associated with in the last five years. Try not to leave anyone out; you never know where they may lead you.
 
Here are a few examples of things you may already be doing that are excellent opportunities for networking:
•    Attending a CPA Ontario peer support event
•    Visiting with other parents during your child’s school, sports or music event
•    Talking with your neighbours
•    Speaking with people in your place of worship
•    People you meet at your sport/hobby club
•    Accessing CPA Ontario’s website and following links
•    Speaking with people you meet in your volunteer work


After you have completed your list, then write an email or call each person on the list explaining your career objective, and that you are currently seeking employment. Ask them for advice, information, and referrals.

Creating More Networking Opportunities

Information Interviews
When your networking leads you directly to individuals with direct contacts in your chosen field you may want to ask them for an appointment to conduct an information interview.

In an information interview you will have the opportunity to wear another hat and be the interviewer. Your goal in an interview of this type is to receive advice, information, and referrals. This type of meeting is a way to find out more about the job and the organization, and to broaden your network. If you live in Toronto, register for CPA Ontario Employment Services and ask your CPA Ontario Employment Counsellor or Job Developer to help you set up an information interview! If you’re outside the GTA, find a service provider by accessing the following websites – www.mcss.gov.on.ca (local ODSP office) or www.edu.gov.on.ca (local Employment Resource Centre.)

Job Fairs and Career Events
Job fairs and career events are an excellent means of obtaining specific information about a certain industry or organization. Many of these events are now advertised online. Specific postings are found through universities, colleges, newspapers, networking and trade organizations. Information on upcoming events is available in CPA Ontario’s Employment Resource Centre located at Toronto Rehab’s Hospital, Lyndhurst Centre or on our website at www.cpaont.org/service/employment.

Staffing Agencies
Jobseekers who are interested in short-term, contract or temporary employment, or are looking for a place to start for long-term employment, could consider staffing agencies. Temporary work can be a good step to take in building a personal network, in that it allows the individual to establish contacts, learn new skills, gain experience, expand a resumerésumé, explore new work environments and build work references. Like recruitment firms, they match employment opportunities to the skills and abilities of the individual jobseeker.

Social Networks
Face book, Twitter and Linked-In. Also sign up for CPA Ontario’s E-spoken (www.cpaont.org).

The Internet
Subscribe to newsgroups and mailing lists devoted to your chosen field. This could be a good way to develop networking contacts.

Don’t forget your best self marketing tool - SMILE! 

If you want to learn more about networking, contact Jenny Gilker, Employment Information Coordinator at 416-422-5644 (ext. 245) or jenny.gilker@cpaont.org