What's a network? A group of people connected to you through family, friendship, work, education and community.

Have you ever heard the expression:
"It's not what you know, but who you know?"

Your skills, abilities and knowledge are keys to landing a job, but they may not help get your foot in the door. Most jobs are in the hidden job market, positions that employers hope to fill through personal contacts.

Employers don't advertise jobs, because they would have to sift through resumes, interview people and then hire strangers. They would much rather hire someone who has come to them through a contact.

Each person in your network has unique knowledge, experience and contacts that might help you. Not only that, the people in your network have networks of their own. By tapping into one person's know-how, you may also be tapping into the know-how of many other people.

Chances are, you already have a network. At its centre are the people closest to you, your family and friends.

Your network can also include your acquaintances, everyone you know socially. The minute you ask an acquaintance if he/she has heard about a job opening, you are making that person part of your network.

Here are some people to consider:

• neighbours and family friends
• employers and co-workers
• club members
• teammates and classmates
• teachers and coaches
• community leaders
• librarians
• doctors/dentists

Tips to Building a Network

Good networkers are people who share in the lives of others by giving and receiving information, advice, support and commitment.

• Talk to people regularly to see how they're doing.
• Assist people if they have problems.
• Phone people on special occasions such as birthdays.
• Learn how to ask, listen and respond well during conversation.
• Contact people in your network if you hear or see something that would interest them.
• Put yourself in situations where you can meet new people.
• Help people celebrate their accomplishments and successes.