Six Degrees of Virtual Separation

Six Degrees of Virtual Separation
Networking in the 21st Century

We've all heard the expression that change is the only constant. While changes can be frightening at first, they often bring us to a better place than where we started. This is especially true when we take charge of our destiny by setting goals and actively pursuing them. Perhaps you would like to obtain a new job, or move to a new neighborhood or even a different part of the country. Whatever the case, there are many resources at your fingertips!

One of the first places you should begin is with your referral network, also known as your Center of Influence. This phrase is usually used to describe business contacts, but it really encompasses everyone you know. Here are some online resources that are helpful in this regard:

• Educational Websites: If you attended a college or university, visit their alumni website. In addition to offering career planning and placement resources, you can learn about local alumni clubs in your region. See if there is an online alumni directory, and contact former classmates you may have lost touch with. (Use www.google.com to locate your school's official website.)

• LinkedIn™: This website is a way to virtually assemble and broaden your network of contacts, all at no cost to you. The process begins with you inviting friends and colleagues who you respect and trust to join your network. They, in turn, can invite other individuals to participate. Before long, you have a large group of people assembled who have all been carefully selected by others within your circle. You may then search the network to find individuals who can assist you with whatever you're seeking, ranging from a job in a certain industry to the name of a good attorney.

If you have a need that a fellow member can fulfill, send your request to one of your personal contacts and enlist their assistance in forwarding it on to their contact. A personal introduction will help to ensure a prompt and positive response! www.linkedin.com

• Monster.com: Job seekers and companies alike use Monster® to fulfill their employment needs. But did you know that the website can also be used as a networking resource? Monster enables you to post a profile outlining your background and experience which you can choose to make visible to other members.

Once you've created a profile, you can search through thousands of other member profiles to locate people with similar experiences and interests. If there is a particular company or industry you've been curious about, this is an excellent way to gain insight from someone who is a current or former employee. You may even set up "people search agents" so that matches will be emailed to you automatically as new profiles are added. Searching and viewing profiles is available at no cost, but if you find someone you'd like to contact, you'll have to pay a nominal subscription fee. www.monster.com

If you or someone you know is in need of a referral, I would welcome the opportunity to assist you. My Center of Influence includes financial planners, real estate agents, lawyers, accountants, human resources directors, and other business professionals.