Struggling to find a job? Tired of online applications? My review of the “20-minute network meeting”

This is my review of a great short book called “The 20-minute Networking Meeting: Learn to Network. Get a Job.” by Nathan Perez and Marcia Ballinger.

Knowing how to network is critical for success in all aspects of business, particularly when trying to find a job. Did you know that 70 to 80% of jobs are secured through networking rather than cold applications?

If you want a solid framework to improve your networking then give this book a read.

Networking Myths

Here are some common myths about networking:

⏳ It is a waste of time

📏The longer the meeting the better

📄 A networking meeting is where I give a detailed description of my background

🕊 Off the cuff is best; I will figure out each meeting when I get there.

Wrong… let’s see why.

Effective job search

If searching for work, limit online job applications to a few hours per day, remember 70% of jobs are not found this way! Spend the rest of your time e-mailing, calling and making connections with relevant people in your area of interest. Have lunch with people who could make your next connection.

Not everyone you network with will have a ready-made role for you but they might know someone who does.

Remember that networking is about developing relationships through brief meaningful interactions over the course of time.

The 20-minute networking meeting

When you are given the opportunity for a networking meeting make sure that they get something from that interaction and respect that their time is precious.

This requires a little preparation ahead of time, don’t “wing it”. The book provides a step by step guide through the meeting prep and how to structure the conversation for maximum effect.

🥅 Your goal is to get more relevant connections that can help you or ideally an evangelist i.e. someone who will actively promote you to their contacts.

I am sure anyone who reads this book will learn some valuable tips whether searching for work or simply trying to expand their business network.

🤝 So what’s stopping you? Give it a read and get out there.