Networking is an important part of any job seeker’s toolkit. It offers a number of benefits, including access to jobs that aren’t advertised, recommendations and referrals, career advice and mentorship opportunities. It is also a great way to stay current on industry trends and developments. It is essential for those seeking to advance in their careers and reach their long-term career goals.
Effective networking is a process that should not be rushed. It is crucial that a job seeker takes the time to build genuine relationships with those in their network, and stays in touch with them to report on their job search progress and to ask for help when needed. It is also important for a job seeker to consider the diversity of their network. While it is important to include those in their immediate social circles, it is equally as important to make connections with people from different social organizations, such as churches, recreational sports teams and professional associations.
It is common for a job seeker to feel overwhelmed by the amount of work involved in finding a new job. This is especially true if they are unable to get through the pile of applications that employers receive for every job posting. In many cases, the best jobs are filled before they are ever advertised, so it is critical that job seekers focus their efforts on building a strong network and being proactive in getting to know those in their industry.
While it is easy to dismiss networking as just another form of job hunting, studies consistently show that 80-85% of jobs are found through networking. This is in contrast to the 2-4% of jobs that are landed through applying to online job boards.
It’s not just “who you know” that matters, it’s how well you know them. Networking is a process that involves building relationships that are mutually beneficial, and the more you put in, the more you will get out. It is important for a job seeker to remember that they are not the only one who is looking for a job, and that those in their network may be just as stressed out as they are.
Networking is a powerful tool for job seekers, and it should not be underestimated. When utilized effectively, it can lead to a faster, more successful job search. In addition, it can provide a number of other advantages, such as access to job opportunities, recommendation and referrals, career advice and mentorship, and keeping current on industry trends and development. So the next time someone advises you to “reach out to your network,” take them seriously! You never know, it just might be the tip that helps you find your next great job. Good luck!Networking for job seekers