Build networking connections that lead you to new job offers

You hit “Send” on yet another job application and cross your fingers, hoping maybe this would be the one that calls you back. You are tired of hearing nothing but cricket sounds after emailing your resume to employers. Often, the root cause of a failing job search is the lack of networking.

Take a look at the other job seekers around you. Some of them get hired within days of applying for openings while you spend weeks watching from the sidelines. What are they doing differently to get noticed? They have unlocked the true powers of networking for their job search. With the right strategies, you can do that too.

Get the help of professional networking platforms

Are you someone who deleted the LinkedIn app that came with your phone? Then, it is time for you to download the app again and roll your sleeves up because you are going to be optimizing your profile. LinkedIn is a great place for you to meet professionals from your industry and make connections.

Reach out to alumni

Are you a recent graduate looking for your first job opportunity? Almost every college graduate gets help from their college’s alumni network to discover new job opportunities. If they have graduated a few years ahead of you, these alumni are in the right places in their careers to give you a referral.

Make a habit of attending events

No more hitting “Not interested” in industry event invites on social media. If you want your job search to succeed, you need to build connections with the right people. Industry events are excellent opportunities for you to do that. Keep an eye out for conferences, seminars, webinars, and workshops related to your profession.

Talk to personal contacts

Your professional network doesn’t have to be all about your work friends. Your friends, family, and former colleagues are also great additions to your network. When you are searching for something specific, let your personal contacts know as well. They will be able to introduce you to some employers that weren’t on your radar initially.

Share your insights about the industry

When building up networking conversations with professionals, it is important to show them that you are on top of the industry trends and news. Talk about recent tech discoveries that affect the way your industry operates. Share an article on LinkedIn that expresses your insights about a recent industrial development.

Celebrate milestones of connections

Don’t wait for your connections to reach out to you first. Be the person who congratulates their connections on important career milestones. Make a habit of celebrating work anniversaries, promotions, new jobs, and new projects of the people in your professional network.

Arrange meetings

When you are actively looking for opportunities in a given field, arrange meetups with some of your connections from the target industry. You can also organize informational interviews with some professionals who have your target job title. If they work for your target employers, ask them to put in a good word for you.

Ask for referrals

Did you know that candidates who mention a referral in the cover letter get hired faster? Get referrals from your professional network for your job search. This will help speed things up a little and open more great opportunities for you.