Networking is the process of actively building and maintaining contacts with people. It is a key way of finding out more about the careers, industries and companies you are interested in and of speaking to people who may be able to help with your job search. Networking is increasingly an essential part of a successful MBA job search. Research shows that anywhere between 60-80% of job opportunities are found through networking.

The reasons vary - many people enjoy sharing information or advice about their sector or company, encouraging others in their profession, meeting potential talent or simply sharing information. It is important to understand that networking involves giving and receiving. You should therefore be prepared to discuss your own experience and knowledge and to return the favour in the future.

Your network is probably bigger than you think it is. Think broadly! It can include new and old contacts from any of the following areas:

• Classmates
• Colleagues from previous companies
• ESADE Alumni
• Friends and family
• Professional associations
• Career Fairs / Presentations
• Clients or suppliers from previous companies
• Alumni or professors from your Undergraduate School
• Church, social or other groups you belong to

General Guidelines

1. Assess your network
Your network is made up of a mixture of people: friends, family, fellow students, professional acquaintances, etc. However, it is important to find out who your potential contacts are (those who, directly or indirectly, can help you find the job you are interested in). To do this you must:
-Identify the key people.
-Identify the intersections that exist between the different circles of relations in your network.
-Define the circles of influence.
-Identify bridging contacts.

2. Keep your network alive and up-to-date.
The main challenge when it comes to achieving this goal is not being aware that you know key people, its is making sure the contacts remain valid. We should not forget that networking involves human relations and all relations require time and dedication. A good contact is someone who can:
-Offer you a job.
-Tell you about a job offer.
-Put you in contact with someone who can give you an interview or read your CV.
-Refer you to someone who can do at least one of the above.

3. Use a planning system.
To use networking efficiently, especially at times of vital importance for you such as when looking for or changing jobs, you should use a system to register the actions you take (a telephone or e-mail directory, a register of the interviews you have had or are intending to have, feedback from these interviews, etc.). Although it may seem obvious, you need to turn this exercise into a habit in order to achieve your objective.

4. Join associations related to your line of work.
They can help you contact a large network of people in your sector or the professional area you are interested in (trade union and professional associations, institutes, etc.).