Are you ready to get started with your job search now that the New Year is here? Don't know where to start? Wondering where to find the hidden job market? One of the best ways to get off to a good start, of course, is networking. However, that's going to take a lot of time; time that you may not have due to the need to produce income as soon as possible. How about networking on paper?

Have you sent out letters to all of your contacts letting them know you are currently in search of a new job? If not, this is a great place to start. It will also take a little time, but you can save some time by composing a generic networking letter that can be edited to target or speak directly to each recipient. This form of networking is commonplace and highly acceptable in the business world.

The object of a networking letter is NOT to ask for a job from the recipient. It is to inform the recipient that you are currently in search of a new job and a few details of what you are looking for in a job. Include highlights of your strengths and accomplishments that will enable the recipient to better describe you and what you have to offer. If anyone in their network mentions they have a position available in your area of expertise, your contact will know what to tell them about you when they refer their contact to you.

Close the letter with thanks to your contact for keeping you in mind for any openings they may be aware of or become aware of in the future. You might also consider requesting they send you the latest information regarding their career. Create a file for your contacts and if any respond with information about their career keep it on file for future reference. You will then be in a position to return the favor should you come across something that may be of interest to them.

A generic networking letter should be kept in your career portfolio. With each step in your career you can update it to include highlights of new skills, continuing education, accomplishments, etc., just as you do your resume. It will also serve as a base on which to build your cover letter whenever you respond to a job posting.

So, start composing your letter now while the content is running through your mind after reading this posting which, hopefully, sparked ideas for you.

Angela Betts is a member of NRWA and has over 8 years of experience writing targeted, compelling resumes that will open doors to a world of new opportunities for you. Email Angela at info@resumeritr.com or call 501-467-8768 for a FREE resume critique and to work one-on-one with Angela to develop your resume. Sign up for the FREE Career and Job Search Tips Newsletter Visit http://www.careerresumepro.com for more information.

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