by Marilyn Borysek

It may be surprising to know that only 5% of jobs are actually filled through the "open" job market (Internet job postings on sites such as Monster.com and traditional help-wanted ads). Almost 23% of job-seekers used employment agencies, college career services and executive search firms, and another 24% found success by contacting companies directly.  That means almost half of all jobs are obtained through referrals and word of mouth. How do increase your chances of landing a job, getting referrals and finding out about jobs that are never posted publicly? By networking – talking to as many people as possible and telling them you are actively looking for a job. 

[Source: U.S. Department of Labor, 2004]

Marilyn Borysek manages the ASME Career Center, Member Benefits and Affinity Programs

Visit the JobCoach for additional career tips at www.asme.org/Jobs/Resources/JobCoach/Job_Coach.cfm