Networking is about building relationships, and is considered the most effective way to tap the hidden job market.  There are a variety of job search strategies; however, networking results in an average of 60% to 80% of all job offers.  Networking is NOT quickly acquiring names of people just to get a job.  As stated by Harvey Mackay, author of Dig Your Well Before You're Thirsty, " real networking requires deep, ongoing, caring and sharing interactive practices for all phases of your life".

List of Contacts 
Write down the names of people you know: friends and their parents, family members, faculty, neighbors, co-workers, supervisors, family doctor, broker, banker, realtor, etc., people you have met through your participation in volunteer work, professional organizations, internships, school organizations, etc.  Your list should include all types of people.  Your objective is to develop a list as long as possible.  At this point, do not worry about how you are going to contact these individuals, simply make the list.

Organizing List of Contact
Review your list and determine whom you should contact first based on your career field.  If you have a specific location in which you are looking for a position, contact individuals in that area or individuals that may have contacts in that area.  If you are not very comfortable with networking, start with those individuals that you feel most comfortable contacting.  It is important to have a starting point.

Maintaining the Relationship
Send a thank you letter to everyone who has assisted you, even if it is someone you know well.  Let your contact know that you appreciate and value their suggestions and plan to take action on them.  Keep your contact informed and work to maintain professional contact with your network even after you get a job.  Your network can help you with career developments throughout your life.

Remember the Basics
(1) Do your research, don't expect others to teach you what you can research yourself.  (2) When someone offers their assistance, offer something in return; a favor, lunch, name of a contact, etc.  (3) Don't be pushy or demand others to help.  (4) Ask for referrals before leaving and permission to use their name.  (5) Dress professionally and be on time.  (6) Be patient and don't expect a marriage proposal from the first date -- don't think you have failed if you leave without a job offer.  After all, your purpose for meeting was to gather information.