Hiring trends have slowed over the last year, and while unemployment rates remain historically low, it can be challenging to find new career opportunities by simply submitting online job applications. The number of applications received by employers last year were up 31%, according to a Workday report. That’s compared to just a 7% increase in overall job requisitions, indicating there is more workforce competition than ever before.
According to the same study, the vast majority of employers currently use AI and Machine Learning in their hiring processes. The two most common uses are assessing candidates with online tests and screening resumes and applications. In other words, traditional applicants will only be seen by a human recruiter if they pass through multiple AI-powered hurdles.
What’s the solution to standing out in such a challenging hiring environment? It’s having a personal connection within a company, which can serve as a major advantage and help ensure you don’t miss out on a new job opportunity because of an algorithm.
How Networking Leads to Career Growth
Industry experts report that up to 80% of jobs are not published, which means networking is essential in finding (and landing) your dream role. On top of that, employee referrals have increased 30% over the last year and referred candidates are four times more likely to receive a job offer than online applicants.
The takeaway here is that networking is the best-kept secret you can use to catapult your career growth, whether you’re applying for posted job opportunities or hoping to uncover an unlisted position at a company you love.
5 Strategies to Effectively Network
Ready to network with confidence? Follow these five steps to grow and engage your professional circle.
Create a Specific Goal
Goal setting is an important part of achieving any new milestone. If you don’t have a clear picture of what you want, it’s difficult to know how to focus your efforts. This concept is true for any life goal, including effective networking.
Defining your professional goal helps you build a strategic network rather than connecting with anyone who is willing to interact. You want to connect with people whose interests, industries, and professional goals and achievements align with your own experiences and where you want to head next. Whether you’re planning a career pivot in a new industry or want to level up into a more senior role where you already work, get clear on your ideal scenario to help you connect with others who have already achieved the results you want.Prepare for In-Person Events
As you prepare for in-person networking events, such as an industry happy hour or trade conference, use the same tactics you would to prepare for a job interview. For starters, dress professionally and have business cards on hand to stay in touch with the people you meet.
Also practice talking points about your current work, including a brief introduction of your work. Prepare ice breaker questions to kick off new conversations and lead to genuine connection. A small amount of practice will help you feel more comfortable if you don’t have experience networking in person. Plus, it will get easier over time as you gain more experience at live events.
Build Authentic Relationships
Having authentic relationships with other professionals builds trust before any transaction takes place, whether it’s getting a job referral or making a business sale. What’s great about this networking step is that you can not only build trust with people you know in real life, but with online connections as well. The process starts with giving, either with your time or your knowledge. Helping others puts you in a position to receive help later. It also establishes yourself as an expert in your field. Send thoughtful emails, engage in online forums, and invite them to events. Also look for ways to collaborate, such as hosting an event together or offering your expertise for an upcoming project. When you become known for something related to your career goal, you’ll automatically come to mind in your network when new opportunities arise.Follow Up with Lapsed Contacts
Give your new network a fresh boost by starting with people you’ve worked with in the past or went to school with, then search for them on LinkedIn.
Not only can you manually search for individuals, but you can also browse connection recommendations based on your alma mater and work history. Just click on “My Network” in the platform and scroll down to see people you may know from different associations.
You can also connect with people you don’t know, but work at companies you’re interested in. Tap the “connect” button and include a brief message mentioning how you admire their company’s work.
Position Yourself for Your Next Move
Once you have a solid network in place, start letting people know about the kind of opportunities you’re looking for. Be specific with the kind of position you want and how your experience makes you an ideal candidate.
Then include a direct way your contact can help, whether it’s with an introduction to anyone they know in a relevant field, or with a referral for an open position. Most people want to offer assistance, and you’ll get better results when you tell them exactly what you need.
Learn more ways to advance in your profession with tips and trends on our career blog!
