Is Networking Really Critical in the Job Hunt? Examining Job Seeking Strategies

According to the Harvard Business School, 85% of jobs are found through networking. Networking is the ability to create relationships with the people you meet that make a lasting impression. Traditionally networking involved face to face meetings, but in a social media era, sites such as LinkedIn, LunchMeet, Xing, Plaxo, and Beyond.com have joined the market as options for professionals. Although, networking online is convenient, it has its disadvantages. To network on an in-person basis allows you to find out about jobs that are hidden from most people, and encourages the job seeker to develop the interpersonal and relationship skills needed for job success. The purpose of the study was to investigate the nuances of networking in the 21st century; networking methods and tactics were examined to determine their effectiveness. Methodology included a literature review and interviews with employers as well as individuals on their job seeking personal experiences