3 Networking Tips for Finding a Job

Let me ask you this: what would you do if you were laid off today?

Think about it. Who would be the first five people you would call? Do you have that many you can immediately reach out to?

Our current world is fragile. Employment and many businesses have been and continue to be impacted. Getting a job is a job, even in a good economy! Performing a search today is definitely different from how it was even a year ago. And you need your networks now, more than ever.

Here are three networking tips that will boost your search and get you on the right track to finding your next job.

Tip #1: Learn About the Hidden Job Market

Do you know about the hidden job market? It refers to those roles that are not immediately advertised on public job boards or posted anywhere else. Do you know how to tap into it? You guessed it, through networking.

Around 80% of roles are found through the hidden job market. By making the right connections and building meaningful relationships you have the chance to gain access to those jobs and potential opportunities that may not be publicized. And many times, this happens when you least expect it!

Start by incorporating proper networking habits. You must reach out to individuals within your spheres of influence on a consistent basis. Keep in mind networking is not something you only do when job searching! But instead, it’s something you need to perform frequently. Your next role may be found as you’re having a conversation with a neighbor or through a referral by a friend of a friend or maybe even a past colleague. However, you won’t be presented with the opportunity if you’re not in touch with your contacts.

Make new connections on LinkedIn with people who align with your career path. Reach out to recruiters who focus on your industry, since they may know about open roles before others do. Keep your LinkedIn profile updated to give a clear picture of your skills and experience, making it easier for others to present you as a possible candidate as well as open yourself up to getting found through searches.

Consider finding a career mentor. There are many benefits to having one! And they can offer advice on your search and help you open those difficult doors, especially if you’re looking to change industries. And more than likely they may know about job opportunities others are not aware of.

Practice a networking mindset and offer value to others however you can – and do it often. Introduce your colleague to someone who can help with a project or share your friend’s small business information on social media. You may think this is a small action, but it makes a big impact! And this keeps you top of mind when one of your contacts comes across a job that you’d be a great fit for, even if it hasn’t been made public yet.

Keep in mind networking is not something you only do when job searching! But instead, it’s something you need to perform frequently.

Tip #2: Learn to Make a Networking Plan

Let’s get back to those five people you would call and do a little exercise. First, write down who they are. Then, answer the following questions about each person:

When was the last time you were in touch with them?
What value have you provided for them?
Is it a mutually beneficial relationship?
Do you think you are the only one who would reach out to them?

You need to have a plan and knowing which of your contacts are on the top of your go-to list is a great start. You should have a good understanding of how worthy the relationship is and the value you provide to each other. And if you haven’t communicated with them recently, do it. Don’t be afraid to utilize the power of your connections while job hunting!

Develop a routine as part of your plan that incorporates those networking habits mentioned earlier. Set aside a specific amount of time each day to reach out to your connections, reconnect with contacts you haven’t spoken to in a while, and create new ones. Consider incorporating the Power Half-Hour or the Five-Minute Favor, both of which will have a positive impact on your relationship-building and job hunting efforts.

Be sure you nail down your elevator pitch. This is an important part of your job search plan! If you come across an opportunity while having a conversation with a friend or speaking with recruiters, you should be ready to successfully present yourself and the value you offer to a potential company.

Of course, attending networking events is the first thing you probably think of when planning a job search. And they do offer many advantages when looking for a new role. But many in-person gatherings have been canceled given our current circumstances and the practice of social distancing. But this shouldn’t prevent you from continuing to build relationships.

Signing up for virtual events, networking groups, mastermind groups, and even volunteer gigs that are occurring online offer huge potential to be in contact with people who may know about available roles. Don’t give up on networking, especially if you’re job hunting!

Set aside a specific amount of time each day to reach out to your connections, reconnect with contacts you haven’t spoken to in a while, and create new ones.

Tip #3: Learn About Networking Through Training

Take advantage of online courses and other training that helps you discover how to leverage networking during a job search. There are many to choose from, depending on your interests, career level, and expertise. Even better, sign up with a friend or colleague! Working together on a specific project can strengthen your relationship. It also encourages you to hold each other accountable for completing it.

Don’t know where to start? Consider signing up for our Careers Through Connections course. It teaches you how to develop specific job hunting habits and create networking goals to advance your career. You’ll learn effective strategies for building meaningful relationships with people who can open doors to opportunities for finding a new job. And it provides you with a roadmap full of successful techniques that will enhance your search – and help you land your dream role.

Another way is to listen and subscribe to podcasts, read blog articles, and utilize resources that focus on relationship-building and job searching, and provide tips and advice for improving your networking skills. Increasing this knowledge puts you in the right mindset. And of course, makes you more aware of how you can leverage your connections while looking for a new role.

Networking is a highly effective career tool, and also the most underutilized! And probably the most underrated. This is likely because you may not understand just how powerful your connections can be when looking for a new role.

Consider these relationship-building tips to get your job search on track – and good luck!