Sunday, March 2, 2008

Business Networking

I completly agree with the quote "It's Not What You Know, It's Who You Know" and I strngly believe that one of the most important things in life is to have a good and reliable network.

I strongly believe in this because I recently had an experience that has something to do with this. I am a senior in college and I am activeley seeking employment in the financial industry. I applied to hundreds of jobs online and did not receive a follow up to any of my applications. I was shocked at the beginning because I believe I am very qualified for any of the jobs I applied. I have very good grades and have a ot of work experience in the industry.

After a couple months, I got tired of sitting and waiting for a response so I decided to take a different approach. I contacted people (Parents, uncles, cousins, friends, godfathers, etc.) that I knew have an extensive and reliable network in the financial world that could maybe help me get in touch with someone that could help me out. I got in touch with several people working in finance through my contacts. These people helped me out and got me an interview with their companies.

This example of mine clearly demonstrates how important it is to know people. I am glad I got to understand the importance of networking this early in my life because I am sure there are grown ups out there that still don’t have a clue. I know take advantage of any opportunity I have to go out there, meet people and leave a good impression of myself because you never know when you are going to see them again in the future.

I found a very interesting video about The Power of Networking. John Clark, President of LifeToSuccess.com, speaks about how important it is to network and how to make the best out of networking situations.

3 comments:

Unknown said...

My friend had the same experience. He applied to many different organizations right out of college and wasnt able to get a job for at least 4 months. Finally, he went to his friends and family and asked for their help and within a few days he got an interview and was offered a job immediately. Especially in Washington, DC it is who you know and not what you know. I think the university should do a better job making its students aware of this.

SteveO said...

yo hector, i think that being athletes also helps us out with networking because we come in contact with someone different people that have a ton to offer if we are just willing to take the time and ask questions.. a friend of mine who ive been running with for two years just contacted me two weeks ago about a possible job opportunity bc he didn't realize i was graduating in may and he was like man i have to get you a job then.. so i feel this is another window of opportunity that we have that other students don't have

David R. said...

Hector I completely agree with you. Right now I am also experiencing frustration in my internship search. Most people I know got a job or internship because of a connection or someone they know. The fact of the matter is, there are too many qualified people.