This actually follows on from the previous example. Whilst one of the person’s has achieved an introduction, I noticed he only talked about himself and what he wanted – I wondered if the other person would choose to progress the introduction or let it go. My point here is don’t just talk about yourself, make a conscientious effort to get other people talking as well and find out about them and their interests – networking must be a two way thing.

By accident today I noticed a networking event. In Starbuck’s I happened to bump into two people I knew simultaneously (neither of which had previously met) and introduced them to one another.

One was a CEO of a couple of companies and the other an independent Management consultant who had been doing his own thing for the last 9 months but who had been struggling to win projects – each of which operated in closely aligned fields to one another – both had notable dealings with the automotive industry and each of which was in marketing but slightly different marketing functions i.e. complimentary but not competitive.

The conversation between all of us progressed a little, talking about the launch of the iPad yesterday which created a rapport, and a bond, and then on to what each of them did. It became apparent they had similar client types, the CEO had some very good relationships and volunteered to make some introductions – like you don’t get any better than Honda do you?

This observation demonstrates what can be achieved when networking in person takes place – even by accident – phone calls are great for networking but networking in person may help you go the extra mile.

Yesterday I met with a General Manager looking to make an important hire.

After he had given some background to his situation, I quickly picked up on the fact that the previous job holder hadn’t worked out and following further probing – he opened his heart and agenda to me as to why this person hadn’t succeeded (simply put the person was the opposite of everything they needed), why they had let the person go and most importantly what characteristics they really needed in a replacement hire. When interviewing, always ask “How has the position arisen”?

Most experienced job seekers, take a previous CV and simply update it.

But the fact of the matter is - what worked 5 years ago isn't strong enough today.

Employers are more specific, more demanding and have more choice. Hiring standards and expectations have been elevated, like it or not, most people are average and most CVs are average. If you want to get a better job, create a better CV - one which punches above your weight or at least maximises your potential otherwise all your CV will be good for is an average job. If you want good results in job seeking, make sure your CV represents you in the best possible light.