One Powerful Tool That Increases Your Chance of Getting The Job.
Job search is a challenging and daunting task. Investing time in searching job boards, crafting resumes and completing job applications is not a joke. It gets crazy when you don’t hear from the companies you applied to. Job markets are continually evolving, making it difficult to land jobs.
Amidst this hustle and bustle, one powerful tool can save you from the never-ending search. This is networking. Yes, you read that. According to LinkedIn corporate communication, 80% of professionals consider networking important to career success.
What is networking and how do you do it correctly?
What is Networking?
Networking is not just about collecting business cards at events or connecting with professionals on LinkedIn. It is not just knowing people but them knowing you too. Networking involves an ongoing process and you need to put in the time and effort to nurture them.
This means you build genuine relationships and connections within your industry or desired field. It’s about fostering meaningful interactions with people who can provide insights, support, and job opportunities.
Why is Networking Important In Your Job Search?
Hidden Job Market
Many job openings are never advertised publicly. They’re filled through referrals or word-of-mouth recommendations. 70% of jobs are not published on job sites and these are filled by personal and professional connections. It is natural for you to recommend good people you know. The same happens when you network effectively. You gain access to these hidden opportunities.
Personalised Insights
You gain valuable insights about potential employers, industry trends, and the job market when you connect with professionals or people in your field. Talking to professionals who are already established in your field can provide you with invaluable advice and information that can give you a competitive edge.
Professional Development
Through networking, you can find mentors who can guide your career growth and help you develop essential skills. They offer advice on career paths, share their experiences, and provide a fresh perspective on your goals.
Boosting Confidence
Frequent interaction with professionals helps you to develop your communication skills and become more confident. Good communication skills are key to winning job interviews.
How to Network for a Job Identify Your Goals
Start by setting clear goals for your networking efforts. Determine the type of job you’re seeking, the industry you want to work in, and the professionals you’d like to connect with. Specific objectives will help you focus your efforts effectively.
Online Networking
Leverage social media platforms to connect with industry experts and potential employers. LinkedIn is the best platform if you want to interact with more professionals. You need to optimize your LinkedIn profile, share relevant content (content that offers value to your audience) and engage other professionals’ content to get much exposure.
Attend Industry Events
This is another way to build stronger bonds with people in your field. Physical conferences, workshops, seminars, and networking events related to your field offer excellent opportunities to meet professionals face-to-face, exchange ideas, and make lasting connections.
Join Professional organisations
Consider joining industry-specific associations or organisations. These groups often host networking events, provide access to job boards, and offer resources for professional development.
Follow-Up and Nurture Relationships
Building a network is not a one-time endeavour. Stay in touch with your connections. You can call, text, or email (but make sure to give them some space) to do some check-ins or start a conversation about a shared interest. Express gratitude for their advice and support. Don’t start by demanding something from them (e.g. job, money, etc.). It’s not always about receiving.
Show genuine interest in what they do and assist if you can. Most people are willing to support you if you make them feel valued. It’s better to start networking before you start your job search and your network can help you in this process if you build genuine connections with them.
Conclusion
In today’s competitive job market, networking is not just a strategy; it’s a necessity. It can open doors to opportunities you may not have known existed and provide you with a support system that can make your job search more manageable.
Build it with authenticity, curiosity, and a genuine desire to learn and grow. So, start networking now to make your job search less difficult in the future.
