I heard the phrase recently that "your network is your net worth," and it stopped me in my tracks. Not only is it catchy, but it's SO true. To be honest, I never used to believe in networking. In my earlier career, before I became a career coach, I had no idea how people were getting jobs by networking. I kept hearing about how great it was and how it was the missing piece to everyone's job search. It sounded great, but I had NO IDEA what people were talking about. It was great for everyone but me.Fast forward a few years and one new business later, now I get it. I really get it. If you don't believe in networking, then you probably just don't understand it. You've been sold the idea that it's about going to events, passing out business cards, shaking a few hands, faking lots of smiles and hoping someone will give you an interview.I don't know about you, but I'm so over that definition of networking. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it's ineffective too.Effective networking is genuine, enjoyable and ongoing. It's not a one-time event. It's not schmoozing. It's about building relationships with people that you actually like and maintaining them over time. Job leads that come from networking nearly always come from connections that you previously had. It does happen that new connections that you just met on LinkedIn or somewhere else can lead to jobs. But more often than not, it's the people who you already know, like and trust that will refer you and help you find a job.So, if you haven't been working on this, start now. Start today by getting back in touch with people that you used to know. Show genuine interest in them and keep the relationship going.Remember, your network is not just your professional connections. It's everyone that you know at school, church, your neighbors, the PTA, etc. Think big, folks! You know a LOT more people than you think.Need more help? Let me coach you on this. I have an awesome resource that I share with clients called, "Tips For Networking Conversations". It's "done for you" dialogue to start the conversation and help you to get to know other people, learn from them and produce job leads.