Identifying your network begins with a simple exercise – writing down people you currently have connection. To organize your thoughts consider placing each person into a category, which is how I got mine underway. I focused individuals who could help me in my search due to their current position held, industry, etc. I used this list to begin my networking.
Caveat #1: There is also an informal network that comes from telling other people what new role you are seeking. I got several good connections from friends of my wife, because I told them about my situation.
Creating your initial list:
· Family
· School (High School, College and Graduate School) – former students & teaching staff
· Former employers
· Service providers to your companies (bankers, lawyers, etc.)
· Colleagues from competing companies (hey, they are not competitors anymore!)
· Boards
· Social Groups
o School associations
o Sports associations
o Volunteer Groups
o Religious
Caveat #2: Don’t try to edit it too much, just fill in as many names as possible. Once you get it completed, then you can sort out how to prioritize each person.
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