Make The Most Of Your Business Relationships

By Craig Calvin

When you work in an office, one of the most important skills you can have is your inter-personal skills. How you relate to your co-workers and business associates is not only critical to your day to day responsibilities, but it can also help if you are looking for a new job.

The number of unemployed individuals in the U.S. is the highest it has been in a long time. There are more companies reducing the size of their staff then there are companies who are hiring new employees. If there are jobs available that you are interested in, or are qualified for, the competition for these jobs is probably going to be tougher then it has ever been before. You need every advantage you can get to help you get noticed by companies that are hiring, and if you have a strong business network, someone in that network may be able to help.

The use of networking has been a well established business practice for generations. If you need to get something done at your current job, are just looking to see what things are like at other companies, or are actively looking for a new job, the individuals in your network are traditionally an excellent resource to help you achieve your goal. If you can make connections within your company, across companies, even across industries, and cultivate these relationships, it can prove to be very beneficial. The more you offer to help others, the more likely they will be able to help you when you need it, and with today's job market, if you are looking for a job, you may never need it more. The people in your network may know of jobs that have not been well publicized, they may be able to provide a reference for you if you are applying for a job at their company, or they may be able to make sure that your resume is seen by the right people.

Social networking is another great way to connect with people who may be in a position to help you find employment. There are more and more professionals who are part of Facebook and MySpace now and the numbers keep growing. Maybe you can re-connect with someone from high school or college who knows of a job opening that would be perfect for you. The more people you are connected with via social networking, the more people you have who can keep their eyes and ears open for you, and help you get your foot in the door if a position is available.

Between the tried and true methods and the rapid-growing popularity of the new social sites, there has never been a better time to ask for help. - 32179

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