Finding a job is tough work, and networking is a great way to find the jobs you want. But financial expert Mark Lamkin from Lamkin Wealth Management says there are five networking mistakes job hunters often make.

YOU:  Leading with your need. Take stock of exactly what kind of work would fascinate and engage you most, and then launching an information-gathering campaign. Find ways to approach people with knowledge and expertise then make sure to have those conversations count. Not only will you make more connections and learn more about specific openings, but you'll vastly increase your chances of ending up in the right place.

FACEBOOK: Relying exclusively on online social networks. There's no question that LinkedIn (LNKD), Facebook, and their ilk can be tremendously useful in a job hunt, but they are only a first step. It is important to get away from the computer screen and connect with people. Different things happen when you meet with someone in person.

FRIENDS:  Don't overlook the people you come across every day. Practice engaging strangers in conversations.  You never know who you'll meet and how they're connected to your dream job.

RELATIVES: Jobseekers overlook their own family members' and close friends' professional networks.  There is a chance you may know them too well to really be aware of how many business connections they have. Include them in your information-gathering efforts, and you could be pleasantly surprised.

HESITATION: Hesitating to get in touch with people you haven't seen or spoken with in a while is a common problem. Experts say many jobseekers  believe others are too busy to help.  The truth is most people are happy to help, if you ask for information or guidance for the job hunt.

Also, don't define your talents and interests too narrowly. Just because you've always been, say, a human resources manager doesn't mean your next job will necessarily be in human resources management. You don't have to stick with one thing all your life. You can take what you've learned so far and make a purposeful plan for applying it -- either in a related field or in some other kind of role where your skills and experience could be even more valuable.

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Lamkin Wealth Management

5151 Jefferson Blvd., Suite 102

or

901 Lily Creek Drive Ste. 102

office: 502-961-6550 Office

toll free: 866-961-6550

www.lamkinwealth.com

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