June 2002

A FOCUS COMMENT:

2002 Reemployment Research Survey Shows:
“Networking: More Important Than Ever”

OI Partners’ most recent Reemployment Research Report confirms that over 70% of new jobs come about as a result of networking. Today, with unprecedented numbers of layoffs and swelling numbers of people unemployed, there are more people applying to each job than ever before.

Everyone knows that layoffs and plant closings are still sweeping through our ecomony. Hi tech, manufacturing, and services have been and continue to be hit hard. Not-for-profit organizations have seen severe drops in funding and reductions in the public sector are in question. No job appears immune or safe. In spite of these gloomy facts, wonderful things are happening with our unemployed clients who are in the job search. Very little is taken for granted. Our clients are not only assessing their skills, aptitudes, interests and accomplishments; they are taking a prolonged look at their quality of life. Finding the right employment is the focus.

Job Search feels like a lonely business. Today, with so many home offices and computers, many people sit at home and move between the computer, refrigerator and couch. For the most part, these same people recently worked in a collaborative environment with lots of contact with others. Now they are home alone.

Not that long ago, when job searches were shorter, people could enjoy the leisure and peace and quiet of home, perhaps coming to our office every week or so to attend a seminar or seek counseling. Today, because job search times are less predictable, and perhaps because of heightened consciousness about connecting with others, our Network Focus Sessions are packed and growing. During the sessions a lot of mutual support is offered. People hang out in the office over coffee and network with each other, problem solving, listening, and passing on leads. For example, the other day there were threee clients from different companies all of whom had held similar positions. They were all sharing the same leads with each other, realizing the possible competition, yet knowing that each has a unique set of qualifications. As one person acknowledged, “If you get the job, you can help me and vice versa.”

People hire people. Networking IS a numbers game, but far more important, it is a process of human-to-human connections about something critical to both parties … finding the right person for each job. Networking opens and fosters the building of this mutually beneficial relationship.

To receive additional research information on workplace re-employment issues such as:

• Cause of Termination
• Source of New Job
• Industry Change
• Geographic Preferences
• Time to Land a New Position
• New Responsibilities
• Salary Levels

Call and request a copy of the OI Partners - 2002 – Re-Employment Research Report
Phone: 952-525-1475. You’ll find it interesting and informative.

Personal Service.  Consistently Delivered.  Worldwide.    
When You Need Us. . . We’ll Be Here. 

                                  Phone:  952.525.1475            
            
Email:  E-Talent@oipartners.net