Networking as a professional is a great tool for building and maintaining new connections. It is a great way to grow your career and improve your professional success. Often considered one of the key elements of job hunting, networking can play a critical role in your search for a new role. According to a CNBC article, “research shows that 70% of all jobs are not published publicly on jobs sites, and as much as 80% of jobs are filled through personal and professional connections.”
When you connect with others in your field, you tap into a wealth of knowledge, insights, and potential job leads. Consider the following strategies to leverage the power of networking in your job search.
Define Your Goals
Networking isn’t just about collecting business cards. It’s about having a clear purpose. Are you looking for a mentor, exploring new industries, or seeking job referrals? Define your goals so you can tailor your networking efforts accordingly. This will ensure you connect with the right people to help you in your career.
Online Networking
Online networking provides jobseekers a powerful platform to expand their professional connections, showcase their skills, and uncover job opportunities. Jobseekers can create a compelling digital presence through social media platforms like LinkedIn, highlighting their qualifications, experiences, and achievements. A Harvard Business Review article recommends actively managing and diversifying your online networking as your connections can impact various factors, such as your job prospects, job mobility, promotions, and pay.
Engaging with industry professionals, recruiters, and potential employers online allows jobseekers to establish meaningful relationships, gain insights into specific industries or companies, and even receive advice and mentorship from established professionals.
Connect with Recruiters
Networking isn’t only about connecting with professionals in your field. Connecting with recruiters with extensive knowledge about the industry is equally important. Whether you find a recruiter on LinkedIn or through their official website, connecting with them and discussing your goals can be helpful.
An executive search firm will help you in your job search from beginning to end – from providing you with the opportunity to showcase your applications to landing interviews and negotiating the salary. Recruiters typically have connections to different companies, giving you access to hidden job postings and increasing your chances of getting noticed.
Leverage Existing Connections
Don’t overlook the power of your existing network – friends, family, former colleagues, and even college buddies. By reaching out to individuals within their network, jobseekers can inform them of their job search and inquire about any potential openings or referrals. This approach often leads to access to hidden job opportunities that might not be publicly advertised. Leveraging existing connections also gives jobseekers first-hand insights into company cultures, roles, and industry trends.
Attend Events (Virtual and In-person)
Networking events are golden opportunities to meet like-minded individuals. Attend conferences, workshops, webinars, and seminars. If the event is virtual, engage actively in chat rooms or discussion forums. If it’s in person, come armed with a genuine smile and your elevator pitch.
Give As You Receive
Networking isn’t a one-way street. Make sure you’re prepared to provide assistance, guidance, or resources to others before seeking anything in response. Generosity is a fantastic way to build meaningful relationships. In fact, if your connections notice that you are offering them help, they are more likely to keep you in mind when a position you are qualified for comes to their attention.
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