Need a new job challenge and are in the “active search” stage? Take a few minutes to read this article about networking for a job search. You’ll come away with some valuable principles that will give you more options and help you choose the job that’s right for you. Are you ready to make a significant improvement as a candidate thanks to your networking?
Index of contents
Defining networking
Networking is the creation and use of an extensive and influential network of personal contacts. It is used in the private, business, entrepreneurial and self-employed spheres. The main objective is to project a positive corporate or personal image with the intention of generating new opportunities.
In reality, this networking is always with us. Every situation becomes an opportunity to make new, productive contacts. For example, attending a business event allows us to meet interesting people with whom, who knows, we might be able to collaborate. Training courses, both face-to-face and online, and social networks also help us weave this universe of useful contacts.
But when everything is going well, things seem much simpler: you work, you network, you meet interesting people… But what happens when we are out of work? Psychologically, contrary to what we need, we tend to isolate ourselves. To shut ourselves up in our difficulties. Objectively, we have fewer opportunities to network. So you have to act: if networking does not go to Muhammad, Muhammad goes to networking, parodying the famous saying at will.
So are we talking about plugging in? Not at all. It is a much deeper and more reliable formula of communication and professional relationship. The contacts obtained allow us to show who we are, how we work and what we can contribute. Therefore, it is an effective and 100% valuable procedure to obtain the results expected by both parties: the recruiter and the hired.
Some facts about the importance of networking
Did you know that 85% of job postings are closed thanks to job networks? This is a more than revealing piece of data from a research conducted by LinkedIn. It is truly inspiring because it shows that many placements are resolved in a personal way. In other words, through contacts.
In fact, companies often prefer not to advertise their talent needs for three main reasons:
- Strategic issues. The goal is, above all, that the competition does not discover these deficiencies or circumstances.
- Information shielding. The confidentiality of some process-related data is best protected in controlled environments. Acquaintances and acquaintances of acquaintances offer more reliability.
- Confidence in headhunters. Especially in management positions and those of greater relevance. The work of these professionals is solvent, discreet and more effective.
How to start networking
You are already late. It is never too early to start building such a personal network. Of course, the fact that you are reading this article is a differential first step. You are fully sensitized to the subject and it is undoubtedly a fundamental help to move forward in your purpose.
We insist: the work to be done is physical and virtual at the same time. In fact, think of them as two sides of the same coin that need to feed off each other. In fact, many face-to-face contacts continue through social channels. And vice versa, some of your networking contacts may require follow-up in-person meetings to solidify them. The steps you take will always depend on the specific case and the person with whom you have a relationship.
The first steps
The starting point is to appreciate the value of this work. Do not see it as a fad, an annoying obligation, or something to fill in when you have nothing else to do. It is a fundamental facet of your reputation and personal image. They are part of the essential communication you have to do. That is why they require a specific plan and a coherent implementation.
Consequently, you should start in this way:
- Design a plan and specify the purpose, objectives, target audience and the ideal policies and tactical actions. To do this, you need to research the product (which is you), the industry, the audience, and the channels available.
- Start by contacting the people in your closest circle who are related to your chosen field.
- Forget about being a victim and plugging in. Plan your communication in a positive way. Show interest in a job for which you have proven training and experience.
- Get moving: Take the initiative. Attend industry events, trade shows, classes, meetings, and related Web sites. Spontaneous candidacy is another valid option; if you try it, do it judiciously.
- Take advantage of social networks. Social networking is essential to creating a differentiated digital footprint. Plan well where, how and when to be on them. And most importantly, who to target and what to communicate.
Digital footprint, a key issue
Your global presence on the Internet is like a gigantic CV, permanently updated. Just like write your curriculum vitae writing your resume and selecting your personal skills, you must act on this content.
Many companies and headhunters search for talent online. Even more often, they expand their information and evaluation criteria when they are hesitating between several candidates. Of course, you are on the Internet. If they’re looking, they’re going to find you somehow. This is the key: you must be the one to define the criteria and adequacy of the information associated with you. Only if you build an attractive online reputation and achieve a stimulating and valuable digital footprint will it help you find a job.
Useful tips to improve your digital profile
- Create professional profiles. You must be on LinkedIn. If you are on Facebook or Twitter, you need to have a professional profile. Focus your presence in the direction you want to go, both in the content you share and in the contacts you follow and let follow you. If possible, separate the professional from the personal. Do you really think they will hire you if the only photos they see are of late night parties and family gatherings?
- Open the privacy of your professional profiles. That way, any company interested in you can see them. On the other hand, protect the privacy of your personal and private channels. Make them available only to your colleagues and close friends.
- Work on the content. Don’t improvise: always proceed according to your personal communication and networking plan. Associate your image with useful, valuable, relevant and attractive information. Personalize it, do not hesitate to get involved and contribute your own ideas, inspired by the best in the industry.
- Follow industry references. Your connections say a lot about you. By following the best in each field, you will not only have access to more rigorous, enriching, and productive content, but you will also be associated with the crème de la crème in your field. If the best quality of a manager is to surround himself with the best, what is the opinion of someone who is able to do that in his social networks? Very positive, of course.
- Invest time in a blog. It is an extraordinary calling card. Your articles reflect your professional qualities, knowledge, approaches, and ideas. If someone wants to know how you perform, they will certainly be able to see it in the articles you write and sign. Publish quality content, get involved and, yes or no, share these articles on your social networks to give them visibility. . Of course, be consistent: if your last post is five years old, the image you project is not too operational, is it? It is also a very enriching and relevant additional learning mechanism.
- Update your curriculum. Include all references and links to your websites, especially your blog.
Social networks and active job search
In your job search networking you must have a well-defined strategy:
- Create the optimal profile for each social network you are on.
- Reflect your personal goals.
- Follow people, companies, and groups in your field.
- Follow interesting contacts. Do not focus only on your acquaintances, but also follow relevant names in the industry.
- Be active in each social network you choose.
On the other hand, you should avoid these mistakes:
- Putting all your eggs in one basket: using only one social network.
- Neglect your personal brand.
- Keep the personal and professional parts connected.
- Be flippant in your language and comments. Better yet, don’t criticize your former companies and colleagues.
- Do not update content.
- Take too long to respond and interact.
- Engage in monologues rather than conversations.
Best social networks to find a job
At this point, you are probably wondering where to go to optimize your job networking. These are the most interesting online options, depending on the industry and the characteristics of each person and position:
- LinkedIn. It is the most important professional social network, the one with the most users. You need to be on it. When writing your profile, think of it as a resume. Do not hesitate to work on your network of contacts or join groups with the same interests as you. Remember that you can find job opportunities.
- Facebook. It is a generalist social network, but it can give you visibility and good connections. Above all, keep the professional part separate from the personal part: create two different profiles if necessary. Do not hesitate to share links to your more professional content, especially your blog posts.
- Xing. It is very similar to LinkedIn: your modus operandi should be the same. Connect with professionals, view opportunities, and join related groups. Of course, share content that interests you.
- beBee. This Spanish social network is based on personal branding. You can even create your own blog.
- Twitter. It is also a generalist channel that you can use to connect with interesting people and promote your professional content.
- Gust. It focuses on start-ups and entrepreneurship. In addition to finding collaborators, you can obtain alternative financing for your professional projects.
- Shapr. It allows you to filter by multiple factors, simplifying your search. Most importantly, it is used to connect with professionals in your field or industry.
Best networking events for job seekers
Have a clear idea: No one is born skilled in this facet. Therefore, you must persevere and not get discouraged. Every time you go to an event, try to take advantage of the opportunity and at the same time train yourself for the next one.
Among the events you should attend are:
- Industry conventions and meetings.
- Courses, workshops, conferences, and webinars on topics related to your business.
- Trade shows and events
- Presentations or book signings.
- Product, facility, or exhibit showcases and launches.
- Job fairs and events.
- Any current event related to your field and work.
- Dinners and reunions with former colleagues from companies, studies or other social activities.
- Informative events about the professions of the future.
At this point, you no doubt realize that no one can give up networking to find a job. You need to develop and use your networks both virtually and in person. The sooner you start, the sooner you will be able to find a job.
Are you looking for a new job challenge?
Register your CV, and from ISPROX, we will contact you if any vacancy matches your profile.
