In this modern work environment, networking is more important than ever. With so many people competing for the same jobs, it can be difficult to stand out from the crowd. However, networking is one of those lost arts that social media has, more or less, watered down.
Luckily, there are a few strategies you can use to make sure your networking efforts pay off. Consider these tips to find your next job through networking.
Avoid Being Shy
This is the first and most obvious step to landing your next job by networking. To be honest, it’s rare to see someone in a very high position of power when they are shy or timid.
If you’re looking to take your job to the next level, it’s important to look at complete measures of success and understand that, in most cases, one simply cannot be shy.
You’ll need to exit your comfort zone and take on tasks that might not be geared to your strengths. Only by stepping out of your comfort zone will you begin to see that networking really isn't that difficult.
Start Freelancing
Freelancing can be one of the most effective ways to network.
Just by creating a profile, at LinkedIn for example, you’ve entered the world of contractors and freelancers who meet each other solely on experience and judgment. If you’re good at your work, you’ll stand out and develop a deep list of contacts that you can call upon for extended work or even full-time jobs.
In fact, most freelancers go on to start their own business, which in some cases can lead to huge success and an even better job down the road.
Update Your Social Media Profiles
In the modern world, very few people use word of mouth anymore. Virtually all communicating is done online. For this reason, making a professional and striking online presence is essential.
This means creating profiles on social media - not to boast about the big fish you caught last week, but to show your success and hardships (people value real profiles).
Think of the social media game as an opportunity to show potential employers who you are and what you do. After all, the hiring staff and HR reps don’t only look at LinkedIn!
Friends of Friends
For some companies, keeping a tight-knit idea of hiring is important. For that reason, friends of friends can be an important step in networking for your next job.
This doesn’t mean that you must start sending out friend requests to every random mutual friend. However, the next time your co-worker asks you to come to a dinner party, don't stay home and watch Netflix. Go enjoy a glass of scotch with some like-minded individuals.
Who knows? A friend of a friend might become your best friend and a colleague at the job of your dreams!
The bottom line is this: networking is more important than ever. If you want to be successful in today’s job market, you need to start making connections and building relationships. And don’t forget – we’re here to help! Need some guidance on where to start? Reach out to us today for personalized advice on how to get ahead in your career. We can’t wait to hear from you!