Networking for jobs
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Finding a job in today’s economy can be tough, yet there are opportunities if you know where to look.
Your best bet for finding these opportunities is not through online job boards, the classifieds, or employment agencies“”it’s by talking to the people around you.
Your network of friends, family members, colleagues, and acquaintances is the most valuable job search resource you have. It’s about reaching out and confidently letting those in your network know you are skilled, educated, enthusiastic and ready to work.
You already know how to network
Today it’s almost impossible not to network, most of us do it most of the time; we just don’t realise it. The act of networking is something that becomes a habit and given the ease with which social media allows us to develop our networks, there’s every opportunity for us not to extend that networking beyond just friends and family. Networking isn’t confined to online, of course everyday people network in the school playground, the college coffee shop in the office and at parties but it certainly makes it easier. The secret is to know how to use networking.
Not just “˜hit and run’
Networking with friends is about sustaining relationships and developing them. The same is true when you network for jobs. When you come into contact with someone beyond your usual circle of friends and family, decide how best to engage them. Networking is a two-way street. Listen to them talk, see what interests them, find out what they do. Send a thank-you note. Ask for feedback. Then make a point of staying in touch – it can be as easy as adding them on Facebook, sending them the occasional Tweet on Twitter or keeping up to speed with them via email.
Building new networks
Your network is bigger than you think it is. It not only includes all of your family members, friends, neighbours, co-workers, colleagues, and even casual acquaintances but also your doctor, landlord, gym instructor, your friend’s mother, old teachers and lecturers, someone you’ve worked with – start writing down names, and you’ll be surprised at how quickly the list grows. Remember, every person you identify is a potential connection to another network.
Confidence
Do you arduously expand your list of friends on social networking sites but feel less confident to “˜talk to strangers’? If you find networking difficult because it involves the wildcard of talking with people you don’t already know, remember that somewhere in that sea of strangers is probably a friend waiting to meet you for the very first time. Besides, once you talk with someone for a while they’re no longer strangers!
Where to start?
Decide what you want to achieve. Asking for specific information, leads, or an interview is much more focused and easier for the networking source. Watching some icould stories might be helpful!
Once you’ve drawn up your list, start making contact with the people in your network. Let them know that you’re looking for a job. Be specific about what kind of work you’re looking for and ask them if they have any information or know anyone in a relevant field. Don’t assume that certain people won’t be able to help. You may be surprised by who they know.
The employers’ viewpoint
We all prefer to do business with people we know and like. Employers will like the fact that you’ve taken the time and trouble to research an idea and to talk to people about a subject or a job. Employers want people who are willing to help themselvesa bit along the way and icould provides a good start to this process. Getting a job is as much about getting it as it is about being given it. After all, when you become an employer, will you be more interested in someone who shows interest in your company and the job they’re applying for or in someone who has done little or nothing to find out about it? Hmm!that’s a tough question.
And finally!
Looking for a job can be stressful. By connecting with others, you’re sure to get some much needed encouragement and support. It feels good to help others so most people will gladly help you if they can.
Ceri Evans, Director, Gelert Associates
Ceri’s career journey!
A degree in drama - 1st job as a result of networking with a friend - work in radio, television, politics and business - set-up own company, offering advice on strategy and communications.
