Infocentre

According to most of the research on finding a job in the past 20 years, networking is the most effective way to find a job in Canada. There are two main reasons for the effectiveness of networking:

1. networks increase access to information on the hidden job market, and
2. candidates are pre-screened by their network.

As a job search strategy, networking makes use of a network of people to help the candidate

1. identify opportunities
2. introduce the candidate to internal contacts
3. establish a reputation

Networking is based on establishing personal relationships with other people and trading information about many things including employment opportunities and who is looking for work. In many cases, the personal recommendation of an individual will secure an interview for a candidate who bypasses the formal application process.

In order to use networking effectively, candidates must understand the local culture, be able to talk to people effectively, and have a solid set of presentation skills and tools.

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