When I graduated from college with my degree in business administration, I went to work for Exxon Company USA and I remember my family's response was, "all right, job security!" Maybe you thought the same thing during some portion of your career. However, things have changed in the job market and today people have to develop their own career security through their sense of self and their network.

What's the difference between knowing a lot of people and having an influential network? If you are a smart job searcher, you will realize that knowing a lot of people is just the start. It is the process of staying in touch with people and building strong connections that creates an influential and powerful network. Statistics indicate over 70 percent of the jobs are found through networking. This means there is a 70 percent chance that someone you know could be the stepping stone or resource to help you make contact with that job opportunity.

Who is your network?

Everyone you meet is a potential member of your network. College friends, alumni, past employers, and friends of your family can all provide valuable job search information. Most networking will be informal. You'll be casually talking with a friend about your job search, and she'll name a company that is hiring. That's conversation, and that's networking.

Maintaining Your Network

Keep people who are part of your network informed about your job search. Let them know when and where you finally accept a job. And stay in touch after you start your job--you don't know when you'll need that network again.

Networking is a natural process of meeting people, making contacts, and building strong professional relationships. It is not a difficult process, yet it is a deliberate process. As humans, we have a natural need to be in relationship with others. It is up to each of us to honor that natural desire to connect, link, and develop camaraderie. Your network can be your most valuable accomplishment in your life. It can be the foundation of support for accomplishments in all areas of your life--guaranteed!

Originally published in Houston Alumni Magazine, Fall 1995.