I’m sure every one of you has heard it before, when it comes to finding a job, “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.”
Why is this?
No one wants to take the time to go through the process of meeting someone, getting to know them, collecting recommendations and the associated steps before hiring someone if they can help it. Instead, most hiring managers would rather take a trusted colleague’s word that someone is a perfect fit for their company.
So how do you get to know someone in the company of your dream?
Get to know everyone.
Networking is the best way to get your foot in the door. You already have a stellar personality, a perfect one-page resume and work ethic like none other, now you just need to show it to everyone you meet.
Portland’s networking opportunities are endless. With programs like Portland Senior Experience internship program (PDXSX) in place, getting to know other associations is a snap!
Here are a few to get you started… Public Relations Society America, American Marketing Association, Portland Advertising Federation, TED Conferences and Search Engine Marketing PDX.
Among these few associations, there are hundreds of excellent networking events that bring together the top communications professionals around the Northwest. These are the people you want to get to know.
And here’s another hint, most associations will let you volunteer to staff the check-in table in lieu of paying the event fee! Just make a call or send an email!
No matter what job you are looking for there are groups of people around Portland able and willing to help you out. For example if you are looking to join a public relations or advertising firm, the New Professionals PRSA group has agency tours on a regular basis – follow them on Twitter here.
Through the New Professionals PRSA group, just last week I got the chance to roam through CMD and speak with some of the upper level management about public relations and the organization.
Getting involved in these networking groups opens the door to job opportunities, internships, mentors and a better understanding of the industry you are planning on working in.
So dive into the deep end, the water’s quite comfortable in PDX!
Check out these other posts that might be useful too! Here (handshaking), here (attire) and here (breaking down a job ad).
Tags: internship, networking, tips & tricks
April 11, 2012 at 11:04 am |
Great advice, especially the point about volunteering for the check-in table. That’s something that I wouldn’t have thought of and seems like it would be a great way to get in to an event while getting your face out there.
June 13, 2012 at 11:42 am |
I have always heard the phrase about knowing people being more important than knowing things. During my last year of studying public relations I have found this true and false, at times. It is definitely true, like you said, when actually getting a job. Recently, I have been in situations at my internship where all I am really valuable for is what I know. I think it’s important to share the idea that networking is great for the initial steps but there is still immense value in experience and education.