Dear Career --
How do I network if I don't know anyone? I understand the logic behind networking and I'm willing, but we just moved to a new location (no surprise) and I literally know no one here. I don't even know where to start.
There's actually a job I found online that would be perfect for me, but I don't know anyone who works there and I'm afraid I'll be left with no choice but to send my resume into cyberspace and hope for the best.
Any suggestions?
-- Lonely at Lackland
Lonely,
Military spouse professionals, probably more than most, end up moving somewhere knowing no one and needing to find work. Although that means there are many, many people who have been in your shoes, I know that doesn't make your current situation any easier.
I am happy to hear that you're willing to network, but I know that can be daunting when you literally know no one else in town. I'm also happy to hear you've found a job you're interested in, but you're right to be hesitant about simply sending your resume into cyberspace.
So what should you do? Honestly, networking doesn't have to be formal. I would definitely encourage you to look into your local Chamber of Commerce (or contact us about starting an In Gear Career chapter in your area), and you should look for professional organizations related to your industry (examples: Society for Human Resource Management or Women in Defense).
You also can network everywhere you go. When someone asks you what you do, tell them you're looking for work. Tell them about the dream job yo'’re looking at and ask them if they know someone in the organization.
Channel your inner (digital) Kevin Bacon: The world, especially the military world, is a small one. Post it on social media. Scour your LinkedIn profile and see if anyone works for, used to work for, or knows someone who works for that company and then ask for an intro.
With all of that in play, hopefully you will meet a connection who can facilitate an introduction, but in the meantime, click submit on that online application! You never know.
Good luck and keep me posted.
-- Career
