If you are a job seeker, you've probably read that networking is essential to finding a new job opportunity. “Is this for real?" I get asked this a lot by clients who are reluctant to network. Sometimes, people find it difficult to socialize outside of work because of family obligations, but sometimes, it's just hard to move beyond the security of the people they already know. Not many are like my client, Bob, (name changed to protect the innocent) whose DISC report came back saying, “Strangers are just friends Bob hasn't met yet." Needless to say, not many people are as gregarious as he is. Regardless of how extroverted or introverted you are, it is important to network. Why? Because it will dramatically improve your chances of being hired. According to CareerXRoads 2011 Source of Hire Report, referrals make up the highest percentage of external hires at 27.5%. With job boards at 24.9%, you'll more than double your chances of getting that new job by using your network, too. Why not boost it up even higher, by expanding it?
