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Building Relationships

by Career Changer on April 3, 2008 10:28 AM

Recently I decided to start a coaching practice, specializing in career and life changes. Right now I’ve started reaching out to people in my network to get referrals. The most important thing I’ve learned as a business owner (and as a career changer) is that you have to have a network. Being able to call on your contacts for advice, for referrals and for support can help move things along.

Though online job boards are extremely popular, that’s also part of their problem. So many people are posting on them that it gets harder and harder to stand out. When you build relationships, you have other people who you can call on – and who can call on you – to get assistance in all areas of your life.

I think it’s funny how with the advances in technology, it still comes down to doing things the “old-fashioned way” by building relationships. I’m certainly one of those people guilty of relying on email more than face-to-face contact, but on the other hand it does make it easier for me to keep in touch.

Recently I reached out to a business group to get referrals for one of my clients. Several people responded within the hour and now they are part of my network. Making job changes is hard enough when you want to try something totally new. When you stay connected to others, you don’t have to go it alone.

Comments (2)

I currently live in Boston and plan to attend the women's career expo next week. I too am having a difficult time finding a job and believe that much of the stress I feel would be alleviated if I had a network of people, mentors, etc. that I could look to for advice, referrals, etc. I am hoping that I will be able to connect with women as such next week.

— Posted by Rachel Spekman | April 7, 2008 4:12 PM | Comment Permalink

This is so very true. I learned this the hard way when I was looking for a job and did not have a solid network to reach out to. It was extremely difficult to make a cold call to someone about potential opportunities and not know them personally or someone who did. Building healthy and outstanding relationships is a strong asset/compliment to your skills and experience. A little kindness and respect for others goes a long way in making a lasting impression.

— Posted by AM Morgan | April 3, 2008 3:43 PM | Comment Permalink

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