Of course, today’s job market is trying. Though there is stiff competition out there, successful candidates are persistent in unearthing potential job leads. In last month’s article, “How to Romance Your Next Employer,” I outlined three key elements for a successful job search campaign:

• Focus on employers who can appreciate what you offer.
• Identify a positioning that attracts attention.
• Differentiate yourself as a first-choice expert.

It is not enough just to open doors, get referred and deliver an impressive value proposition. You’ve got to network purposefully. Don’t count on being remembered; take initiative and be intentional about who you speak with.

Once you have an effective plan, you’ll be ready for the next three implementation tactics that use networking purposefully, as follows:

1. Demonstrate a short learning curve.
When you make contact directly with hiring authorities, the easiest way to gain their trust and cultivate their support is to demonstrate that you can solve challenges. They will be relieved to know that you will contribute immediately without a learning curve.

• Don’t dwell on all the company's challenges.

Do develop a meaningful dialogue on ways to solve their challenges to unearth possible opportunities.

• Don’t ask hiring managers to explain the market.

Do your research, and know the market.

2. Out of sight is out of mind.
Be patient. Polite, persistent, pings avoid missing out on an unexpected opportunity. Remember to give to your connections by offering your resources. Suggest relevant references online or in traditional media. Out of sight is out of mind, so don’t drop out. Bring people with mutual interests together to spur conversations.

• Don’t only be a taker.

Do pay it forward: give assistance, bring people with mutual interests together and look for ways to help others.

• Don’t ask about job openings explicitly when scheduling an appointment to talk

Do attract employers’ attention by seeking advice and information.

3. Reach out to those who decision-makers hold in high regard.
Reach beyond employees at your target companies and connect with authors, key industry figures, academic thought leaders and others to whom hiring managers may go for a recommendation. Be inventive. Seek relationships with suppliers, vendors and consultants affiliated with your target employers.

• Don’t expect to instantly find these third-party thought leaders.

Do count on working hard to cement new relationships and keep up with existing connections.

• Don’t only network with decision-makers who may be busy or inaccessible.

Do access leads indirectly through suppliers, vendors, consultants, former co-workers and others.

Persevere. Networking purposefully is the very best strategy for making connections. Regularly accessing and assessing a large number of high quality contacts produces results: referrals, leads and, most importantly, offers.