Networking to Success

From attending job fairs to visiting Employment Networks or other service providers for support, there are many different ways Social Security disability beneficiaries can explore their work options. One way beneficiaries can find a path to work is through networking. Networking means creating and maintaining relationships, especially to advance a person's job or career. Important things to know about networking include:

• Networking can give you the opportunity to find a mentor who can provide you with advice and guidance at work. Networking can also give you opportunities to mentor others.

• You can network virtually, like on LinkedIn, or in person at an organized event in your community.

• Talking to new people can sometimes be challenging, but there are ways to overcome this so that you can successfully present yourself to potential employers, mentors and professional resources.

• You can learn more about networking by watching this video from the Department of Labor, or reading these tips to get started.

This week, the Ticket to Work program is celebrating International Networking Week February 2-6 to encourage people with disabilities to understand and use networking as a vital tool for success in the workplace. Do you have any networking tips or questions? Post in the comments below!

_{*Image above is unchanged via Aaron Gilson. View Creative Commons license here.}