Let’s start out with how to approach networking as a vehicle for contacts that may lead to job opportunities. It’s important to stay reminded that when you network, you’re asking for help, not for a job. Networking takes some commitment.
Yes, you can…
network through friends, family, and former co-workers; or you can try to meet new people who do the kind of work you want to do or work in a place like that you’d like to work.
Online networking…
is a strong way to engage with others within a group. A good place to start would be LinkedIn. If you don’t already have a profile, create one. If you don’t know how, get some help so that it reads and looks professional. Remember, you’re putting yourself out there for recruiters and potential employers to view. The great thing about LinkedIn is that you never know who you already know that knows just the person you want to meet.
They say,
“It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” Just so happens this saying is true when it comes to looking for a job.
You may be surprised how many people know of job openings that don’t know you’re looking for a job. Whether it’s a career change to level-up from where you are to where you want to be, fresh out of college, or if you’ve been unemployed and reentering the workforce.
Networking is the best way to find a job.
When employers are looking for new hires, they may post the position internally first and may ask existing employees if they know someone they can recommend. Employers appreciate being able to hire someone that knows and trusts that person, so if you can think of contacts and relationships that you already have that could help you find a job – it’s a smart move!
Networking can take some time,
so patience will be a virtue for sure. It may seem easier to search for jobs online, and it probably is, but people find more jobs through networking than any other way of job searching. Don’t get frustrated and don’t get scared. Challenge yourself to present yourself to the world and look upon it as an adventure!
Love and light,
