The Internet has become the super information highway. Because of the way this vast informational location is used, many job seekers have forgotten about the traditional way of job searching. Don’t rely just on the Internet when conducting your job search. Networking is an important job search tool to seek out career opportunities. Some people have abandoned the practice of networking to secure a job just because they do understand how it works. Networking is much more than sitting at a computer and applying for a job online.

Career networking is not as scary as it sounds, actually it is quite user friendly. Your "network" is everyone you come in contact with on a daily basis. Whether it is in person, by phone, or e-mail, whoever you see or talk to is part of your network. This can include your colleagues, neighbors, family, college associates, friends, store clerks or your mail carrier. Simply put, networking is just talking to those around you. You can use this network to get the word out that you are looking for a new career adventure. By simple conversation with those around you, you may get an opportunity you would not have gotten otherwise.

Any goal you aspire to achieve requires hard work. Networking is a key component for anyone looking for a new position. It will be helpful to keep a small folder with your resume and important documentation pertaining to your job search with you wherever you go. Ask for a business card whenever you meet someone. Keep track of where and when you met this person so that you can remind that person, should you need to get a hold of him/her. You can write this information on the back of the business card. You will leave a better impression on them when you can tell them when and where you spoke.

A business card can come in handy when you are given a job lead. If appropriate and agree upon by your networking contact, you could mention the person in your cover letter. For instance, "I spoke with John Smith, he mentioned that you had a Social Studies Teaching position opening up at ABC School District". You do not want to misspell the name of the person, so a business card will come in handy. If you are effective at networking, your business card collection will increase in number very quickly.

If you have a strong lead, do not be shy to follow it. You never know where a job opportunity may spring up. In case you do land a job because of a lead, make sure you thank the person who referred you. A nice gesture such as a small gift (coffee at Starbucks, etc.) or a thank you card would be appropriate.

Career networking is not as instant as sending out your resume to hundreds of employers online, but it can be more effective. If you have ever tried sending out your resume online, you may get responses but your chances are slim and if you do get a response, how promising will it be. Thousands of other people are competing for the same job.

Job Search networking will ensure that you are not met with such a voluminous amount of competition. Furthermore, being referred by someone helps your chances of landing the job, provided they have a great reputation. They can put in a good word for you while your computer screen cannot.

Even if you are happily employed, you should keep your network up-to-date. You never know if or when you will need to get in touch with a particular person. Keep in touch with such simple gestures as an e-mail, birthday wish or holiday card. When possible, offer what you can from your area of expertise to them. By helping them, they will be more apt to help you if the need arises, plus it is the courteous thing to do. Happy job search networking!