Small businesses don’t have the capital to devote to entire payroll departments, legal departments, etc. Outsource to independent contractors whenever possible. In the long run it is cheaper and is definitely a smart business decision.
When hosting a party, we take care of our guests. We take their coats, get them a drink, introduce them to other guests and do whatever we can to make them feel comfortable. Try being the host at any event that you attend. You will automatically put yourself in a position to meet more people and make software defined networking others feel comfortable.
If you are shy, and contrary to your own negative thoughts on the subject, shyness can be overcome by learning a number of other social skills at the same time. Take it slowly at first, and if you find a stiff drink helps – go ahead!
Start networking. Networking is still the best way to get a job. Spread the word that you are in job search mode among your friends, family, former co-workers — anyone that you know who could help with your job search. Dig up names from internships or summer jobs and reach out to those people. Join online networking groups (LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.).
To be truthful I had half-heartedly started looking for jobs even before the lay off. So, at the very least, I didn’t have to worry about updating my resume and coming up with a stellar cover letter at a time when I needed to mope for a day or so.
When he networking groups hull finally got around to calling the name on the lead he always received the same response. The customers would inform him that they were no longer interested, because they were working with someone else.
REFERRALS – My personal favorite networking clients come from referrals. Working in a service oriented profession; every referral to me, feels like a compliment or award. It means someone liked my work enough to tell others about it and positively pass my name on when someone is looking for assistance writing a resume or preparing for their job search. Referrals like all networking, work in a pyramid fashion, it just keeps expanding and reaching further to more potential clients. The happier my clients are the more they will pass my name to others looking for help and I make sure to keep that in mind with every client or potential client I speak with.
Next time you wonder what you’re going to do and say at the next business event or club meeting, think about your structure, content, and delivery. Professional speakers prepare in advance, why not you?