Finding a job is difficult in today’s economy yet, for military wives, it can be a challenge in any economy. Many of us are stationed in areas with little or no industry, making competition in the job market fierce, despite our degrees and work experience. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find the job you want-in fact, the sky’s the limit when you know how to network.
Build your own network. The most effective way to find a new job is to build your own business and social network and create a pool of contacts from which you can draw leads, referrals, ideas and information for your job search. Apply to groups whose members share the same professional interests. Check out your community’s local chapter of Rotary, Kiwanis Club and Women’s Junior League. Talk to them about your job search, and, before you know it, you will hear about positions before they are advertised.
Volunteer. Volunteering is another fun and easy way to meet people- you never know who you end up working with. When my friend, Melissa, and her husband were stationed in California, she volunteered at a fund raising event and ended up working next to the vice president of a large consulting group. When Melissa told him she was looking for another job, he asked for her resume and forwarded it to the head of human resources with his personal recommendation.
Be creative. Search local trade publications and newspapers for mention of companies that are expanding or just opening. Last year, when looking to get out of finance and back into marketing, I was flipping through a local social magazine. In it was a list of the city’s most eligible bachelors, including one who owned his own interactive marketing company. I sent my resume immediately. He gave me an informational interview even though he wasn’t hiring, and referred me to a PR firm in town that was. A few weeks after interviewing, I was offered the position.
Don’t limit yourself to networking just in your industry-everyone is connected in one way or another. According to C.J. Hayden, author of Get Hired Now!, getting to know a day care director makes sense even if you don’t want a job in day care, because she knows so many people. Waiters and hairdressers are often the first to hear about coming changes that lead to open positions. As long as you have your antennae out and listen, you can connect with anyone.
Always follow up. Just like in sales, if you don’t follow up with the people you meet, you are wasting your time meeting them. After meeting someone new, send a note and ask to meet you for lunch or coffee. Building relationships takes time and effort, but it is a vital part of meeting new people and finding a job.
