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How is networking a better strategy than finding jobs online on careerbuilder.com and sites like that?

I hear people say sites like careerbuilder.com and monster.com are a waste of time...... They say about 98% of jobs are unadvertised.......... How do you find unadvertised jobs? I hear people say "networking....sending resumes out to potential employers"............. What I don't understand is: How is it that sending resumes out to random employers just "in case" a job opening comes up............. How is that a better strategy than applying for a specific position online? At least when you're applying on line, you know for sure that there's a particular opening in mind. When I'm applying online, there is a specific job title and a specific purpose. That makes me feel a lot better than just sending resumes out to random companies hoping they will find an opening and call me up.

Public Comments

1. Sending out random resumes isn't networking. Calling up companies and speaking to individuals who have a common backround as yourself and showing a genuine interest in how the company works is netowrking. Ask for an informational interview and ask intellegent questions. DO NOT ever go into an informational interview expecting to get a job. Instead leave them a copy of your resume and ask them to contact you if they hear anything. Keep in touch with them afterward to see how their business is going.
2. Have you ever heard the saying "It's not what you know, it's who you know."? We're in an economic crisis and the job market down the tubes, rather than taking a chance on sending resumes to potential employers, a referral from a friend goes a long way. It's always good to network and have connections. Trust me, it comes in handy in the business world. Good luck.
3. Because networking involves people who know you or who will get to know you. They might be in a better position to recommend you as well as motivation. The other methods are a little too abstract or anonymous