How to get a job through networking?!

[thelittlestkiwi]

I relocated to Auckland 3 years ago and had a baby before I had a chance to get a job here. Since then I've done some contracting for my old employers- although none for about 6 months for one reason and another.

My job doesn't really exist here so I'm trying to make a sideways step. I've had two interviews and each time got very positive feedback but lost out to an internal candidate.

So I decided to try a different approach and have been meeting people for coffee to discuss the sector (which is not for profit). I've got another meeting on Thursday. But I've always found this sort of networking hard and wonder what I should be doing to get to the next step.

Any advice, oh wise MNers?

If the sector you are interested in is not-for-profit then is volunteering a way in? Or do a couple of small fundraisers yourself? Giving your time in a role like school governor always looks community minded on a CV.

Thanks for the reply iseen. I've been doing some volunteering and am searching for the right organisation to get involved in to do a bit more. But I also got offered a few days after my meeting last week. I'm so excited!

Well done. Putting yourself beyond your comfort zone has paid off already !!