by Kevin Donlin

Networking -- everyone will tell you it's a great way to connect with employers. Yet, I get more questions and complaints from readers about networking than almost any other employment topic. Why is that? Here's an example.

Russ, in Minneapolis, writes: I am looking for a job. The problem is that I have not the foggiest idea where to network. I am looking for a management position, possibly in manufacturing, but I don't know who to talk to. Do you know of gatherings, clubs or user groups where I could start?

Let's see if we can help Russ -- and you -- network smarter, and get hired faster ... First, Russ should tap the latent value of his existing network. Think about this: If you're, say, 40 years old with friends dating back to college, you've built up 20 years of "relationship equity" with those people over the years. What a huge asset that is! I suggest you send an email inquiry to everyone you know, like this: Hi! I hope this email finds you and your family well. Would you do me a quick favor? I'm in the job market, looking for a manufacturing management position, with a company like Caterpillar, Honda or Toro. Who do you know that I should be talking to at those companies, or one like them? If you could send me their name and contact information, I would really appreciate it!