Nervous about networking? Confused about how to navigate the world of professional relationships in order to find job opportunities and advance your career? Look no further - MALK Organics operations and marketing manager Abby is here to provide you with her job-winning strategies that have helped her succeed in the competitive world of job hunting.
In today's tech-driven society, it can be incredibly tempting to simply sit behind a computer screen in your pyjamas and apply for jobs online. However, the reality is that in order to truly stand out and make an impact, networking is essential. Research shows that internal referrals are one of the main sources of employment opportunities, highlighting the importance of building and nurturing personal relationships within your industry.
But networking can be daunting for many. While some people seem to excel at it naturally, most of us have to learn and practice in order to become successful networkers. The good news is that networking is a skill that can be honed and developed over time. By following these 7 steps, you can gain the expertise you need to navigate the world of networking with confidence and ease.
1. Set goals. Before you start networking, take some time to consider what you want to achieve from your professional relationships. Do you want to connect with a potential employer? Find a mentor to provide career advice and guidance? Expand your network within your industry? By defining your networking goals, you can better focus your efforts, prepare your elevator pitch, and determine who to reach out to.
2. Talk to friends. If you're new to networking or feeling apprehensive, start by reaching out to friends and acquaintances. Meeting for coffee or lunch and discussing their careers can provide valuable insights and may even lead to referrals to potential employers or companies. Building on existing relationships is a great way to ease into networking and gain confidence.
3. Meet new people at events. While online networking has its advantages, nothing beats face-to-face interaction. Attend networking events, industry conferences, or career fairs to meet a diverse range of professionals, job seekers, recruiters, and potential employers. Take advantage of social media to find local networking groups and events that align with your interests and goals.
Pro tip: Quality over quantity. Don't focus on meeting as many people as possible - instead, seek out individuals who can truly make a difference in your career and inspire you to grow.
4. Ask questions. Networking is a two-way street. Don't just talk about yourself - take the time to ask your contacts about their goals, experiences, and challenges. Active listening is key to building meaningful relationships and demonstrating genuine interest in others.
5. Create a network matrix. Map out your network connections and identify individuals who work for or have connections to companies you're interested in. Utilize this “Who + Where” matrix to leverage referrals and references when applying for jobs. Having a personal connection within a company can significantly enhance your chances of securing an interview or job offer.
6. Give back to your community. Engage in volunteer work or support causes that align with your values and interests. Not only will you be making a positive impact on others, but you'll also have the opportunity to meet new people outside of your industry and expand your social circle. Volunteering can also lead to valuable networking opportunities and potential mentorship relationships.
7. Follow up and stay in touch. After networking events or meetings, be sure to follow up with your contacts via email or phone to express gratitude and continue building relationships. Keep in touch regularly and fulfill any promises or commitments you make. Always be prepared with printed resumes and business cards, and consider offering to treat your contacts to coffee or lunch as a token of appreciation.
Networking is not just about job seeking - it's a valuable tool for building relationships, gaining exposure, and advancing your career. By developing strong connections with trustworthy individuals and giving back to your professional community, you can create a circle of support that will help you achieve your goals. Incorporating networking into your job search strategy can greatly increase your chances of success and open up new opportunities for growth and development.