[tick80]

It always disappoints me when I hear that point number two is such a successful tactic. I have read quite a few books from people in influential positions, and even today it's mostly not "what you know" but "who you know".

You can be an alcoholic with other serious drug addiction problems, and yet powerful positions are dropped onto your lap because that very alcoholism rewards you with the best networking opportunities.

It just fuels the image that is presented to us by the likes of reality TV and gossip magazines.

[rick888]

"It always disappoints me when I hear that point number two is such a successful tactic. I have read quite a few books from people in influential positions, and even today it's mostly not "what you know" but "who you know"

Networking has been fundamental to jobs because humans are mostly social animals. People always complain about this, but with the Internet, you can network with more people than you ever could in the past, making it easier to get your foot in the door.

I didn't have a network when I got out of college, so I made one. I now have friends and acquaintances that I can call if I'm ever out of a job. I won't get the job immediately, but it will at least help me an interview.

It's not difficult to do this, you just need to be friendly and social with people in your industry.

[ericflo]

Well, since what you know is that it's all about who you know then it's really about what you know, now, isn't it? ;)