Networking to find a job is a challenge. It’s often the small things that a person does that truly matters. If you’re not willing to put in the effort, you’ll find yourself with fewer job opportunities or missing out on your dream job because someone else is networking better than you.
Here are a few key points and tips to keep in mind while networking to try and improve your job search results:
- Use social media. LinkedIn is the professional’s social media site. Use this platform to connect with others and make a good first impression. It’s always good to connect with your former coworkers and others that can help you out.
- Attend a networking group. Networking groups are essential and will help you to reach out to others that you did not know before.
- Make and bring a business card. You do not want to ask for everyone’s email or try to write down each person’s LinkedIn profile. It is a hassle. Instead, make your own business card with your name, email address, profession and social media profiles. This will allow any contacts you meet to stay connected with you.
- Be forthcoming. Sometimes, being forthcoming is a good thing. Ask a person out to coffee to discuss a topic further. It is always good to make the first move.
- Start commenting. If someone commented on your blog, would you take notice? After meeting a key person that can help with your job search, comment on their social media profile or blog. This kind gesture will make you memorable.
- Research a person. Oftentimes, you will only have a person’s name and no other contact information. If you meet someone you want to network with, scout them out online and add them to your social network. On LinkedIn for example, you can send a friendly note to say “hello.”
- Don’t rely only on networking. Networking is a powerful tool to help your job search, but it should not be your only tool. Use JobTonic or other job search sites to find and apply for new opportunities. Networking is a piece of the puzzle, but it’s not the only way to find a job.
- Take 5 minutes. We’ve all needed favors in the past. Many of the people you want to connect with need a favor. One trick is to offer 5 minutes of your time to help someone out. This is a great way to break the ice and get notified.
- Follow up. People want to feel special and recognized. If you want to reconnect with a person, simply ask them out for a cup of coffee. It’s a great way to keep you fresh in their minds.
- Provide job search help. There will always be someone in your network that needs help finding a new job. These are golden opportunities for you. If you know a position that a person in your network would be perfect for, recommend them.
- Continue networking. The people you need during your current job search (or future ones) may not be in your social network currently. Go to meet-up groups, conferences and local events to expand your network.
These 11 keys to successful job search networking will help you to find a job faster.
Do you have any other tips on networking for your job search? Leave a comment below.
This is a guest post by Helen Evans, Marketing Manager of JobTonic, has been in the career development field for 5 years. She likes to share interesting tips to help people find their dream job. Her goal is to share what she has learned about searching job. Dream job is closer than you imagine. You can find her on Google+, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
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