Networking Brief
by Marilyn Albert
by Marilyn Albert
It’s the holidays and job seeking is important, but what if the jobs you want to apply for are few and far between. What can you do in between sending out job applications? I am recommending a Networking Brief, which is a one page to-the-point document which is all about you and what you know is essential about your work life.
What is a networking brief?
One page of professional skills and experience
A professional document that is to the point, no embellishments or great amounts of detail
What should be included:
• Professional statement (what you do)
• List skills
• Define Industry field of interest
• Experience
How to use a networking brief
• Email to colleagues you want to know you are job seeking
• Email to colleagues as an “professional update” when a resume is not necessary
• Distribute at networking events
• Give to your friends (if they run into someone who is hiring that can speak to your skills)
• Post on LinkedIn
• Post on your Facebook
• Include highlights on your Twitter
• Post on your blog
Advantages of using a networking brief
• A networking document doesn’t scream, “ I need a job”
• Both those that are employed and job seekers can use it (it blurs the lines between the two)
• Helps you build confidence in distributing the document since it can be used if your employed or seeking a job
• Great to hand-out during the holidays in between job applications
Talking Points
• Allows you to focus on the key-points you want to talk about with others
• Doesn’t limit you any one job description or one industry
• You create the foundation and direction of the conversation
• Establishes a new way to represent yourself in the world of work
• Can be used for not job seeking activities such as an introduction to another professional or prior to a presentation
List of Headers or than your typical resume headers
• Areas of Expertise
• Professional Overview
• Experience Summary
• Career Achievements
• Special Skills
• Leadership Skills
Or—b e creative with headers such as:
• Design and Development Skills
• Presentations and Media Skills
