searching for networks through command line / hotkey

When I activate my wifi card on my laptop, it does not immediately connect to
the desired network. When I open the window to show available networks, and
refresh the list, it automatically connects to the network. Is there an
option to perform this search for networks through the command line, so it
can be used in a short-cut or script, or is there some form of hotkey
available for this function? I'd like to perform this search on the press of
a key combination whenever I activate my wifi, so I don't have to click my
way through two menus. I realize Windows will eventually update the list
itself and then connect, but I'd just like to be able to actively initiate a
wifi scan.