‘It’s not about what you know, but who you know’
Says Lauren Jackson – expert networker
We have all heard this saying, but fail to fully grasp the power and reach of YOUR very own network.
Gaining employment through networking has been a basic job searching method since …well since the beginning of time really. I guarantee you that the phrase ‘is there any jobs where you are?’ has been used by your parents, grand parents, great grand parents and generations before.
With so many companies streamlining their recruitment process by sending us to the HR department or telling us to complete a lengthy online application, you could be forgiven for thinking that a simple recommendation from a friend or having a ‘chat’ with a shop manager was a waste of time.
Well my lovelies, I am hear to tell you that job searching through NETWORKING is still alive a kicking. It has certainly become more sophisticated though the use of the Internet, however it is just as effective today as it was 50 years ago.
We as job seekers need to move with the times and update our self-marketing strategies, utilise our existing networks and understand that networking is as beneficial to employers as it is to us.
Here are my top 3 tips on how to network your way into a new job.
- Now this may sound a bit obvious but; pay attention to friends and family when they talk about work. It may be that a colleague is leaving or the company is expanding. This is your opportunity get ahead of the thousands of other job seekers and present yourself as a candidate before the vacancy hits the streets (or the job sites).
- Be professional at all times. Social network sites such as Facebook and Twitter are like a virtual CV to employers and potential employers alike. Ensure that you are sharing positive images, statuses and posts, that promote you as a good friend, family member, acquaintance and EMPLOYEE. Have a profile clean up and pay attention to your Privacy Settings, to control who can access your profile.
- Create a professional profile, such as a Linkedin account and invite previous colleagues, friends and family who work in areas you are interested in. Keep your page up to date and make sure you write positive testimonies and endorse others; this will encourage others to do the same for you too. A profile full of testimonies and endorsements screams ‘fantastic candidate’ and ’employ me’ as you have others selling your skills, experience and abilities for you. Finally ask your contacts to ‘virtually introduce’ you to their contacts to both build your network and get you LinkedIn to company decision makers.
So, what are you waiting for? Go forth, network your way back to work and build up some good contacts on the way!