Predictors and outcomes of networking intensity among unemployed job seekers

This study examined predictors and outcomes of networking intensity (i.e., individual actions directed toward contacting friends, acquaintances, and r eferrals to get information, leads, or advice on getting a job) during the job searches of a sample of unemployed individuals. The study used a Big Fi ve framework, in which extraversion and conscientiousness were associated w ith both higher levels of networking intensity and higher use of other trad itional job-search methods. Networking comfort (a procedure-specific conste llation of evaluative beliefs depicting attitudes toward using networking a s a job-search method) was positively related to networking intensity above and beyond the effects of personality. Networking intensity did not provid e incremental prediction of unemployment insurance exhaustion, reemployment or reemployment speed, or job satisfaction when intensity of use of other job-search methods was considered.