6: Don't Go It Alone With Your Job Search

"Most jobs that get filled are not posted publicly," Peter began. "Most are filled through networking.

Networking, however, is really hard without relationships. That is why we are here today. Here you can meet people, make friends, start relationships, and help one another."

Here are a few rules to help you succeed at networking:

• The 3-Foot Rule: If you get within three feet of anyone, you are obligated to share your career transition experience with them.
• The Help-Others-First Rule: If you're wondering who can help you find leads, turn your thinking around and adopt a new mindset: 'Who can I help?'
• The Have-a-Weekly-Plan Rule: Each week, be prepared to talk about the job and the employers you seek, including a list of the top five organizations you want to network with. Know (and ask for) the help you need—whether it's contacts, intelligence about an employer, or encouragement to keep going.

Career transition is NOT a journey you should make alone. Take the trip with others. Consider it a team effort in which we help one another with contacts, counsel, encouragement, and accountability.

Find career groups near you. Be prepared, reach out, and help others through their crossroads.