Successful Speed Networking at Joe T’s

Networking isn’t just for job-seekers, recruiter says

By Tim Tune
Vice president-Finance, IABC Fort Worth

Networking is as important for the gainfully employed as for the active job-seeker, according to Liz Young, a recruiter for Dallas staffing agency Creative Circle.

Young, whose agency specializes in advertising and creative talent, spoke to participants at IABC Fort Worth’s sold-out Speed Networking event on Feb. 28 at Joe T’s.

With the economy recovering and businesses trying to figure out their next moves, “It’s always a good idea to have lots of good contacts in industries and organizations you’d like to work,” Young said. Even if you may not be actively looking for your next opportunity, she said, “Join as many networking groups you can to build a good community and referral base you could tap – just in case.”

Young shared more basic job-search guidelines:

• Your resume must be perfect. With so many resumes to screen, recruiters and employment specialists can be very picky. Even one typo on your resume can be reason to disqualify you, she said.
• Don’t make a recruiter ask for portfolio samples, unless that’s specified in the job posting. Recruiters don’t have time to ask for portfolios, she said. Include attachments or share links to your website or online file-sharing folder.
• Always let recruiters know what jobs you’ve applied for. If you’re working with multiple recruiters as well as directly with target companies, be sure to let the recruiters know where you’ve applied. This saves everyone time and prevents potential conflicts that might damage relationships and your reputation.

Young can be reached at lyoung@creativecircle.com or (214) 521-4000.