A job search can be a long and frustrating process. If your search has stalled, ask yourself whether or not you’ve got an extensive enough professional network. When it comes to new opportunities, it’s often about who you know, rather than what you know. That means you need to get out and meet as many people as possible – the more people you know, the more chances you have of connecting with new opportunities. If your network could use a boost, consider these strategies for making new connections.
Go To Networking Events
Nobody actually likes going to networking events, it’s true. But if you keep that in mind and recognize that just about everyone in the room would rather be doing something else, you’ll be far less intimidated. These events are designed for one purpose: to connect people and they give you the opportunity to meet people you’d never come in contact with while sitting on your couch. You won’t necessarily land a job at your first event, but if you put yourself out there you will make new connections and grow your network in a way that will pay dividends down the line. To find networking events in your local area, check out websites like Meetup and Eventbrite.
Join A Professional Organization
Nearly every field has a professional organization (or twenty) you can join. Research groups in your field and in your local area. Choose an active organization with reasonable membership fees that holds regular meetings and events. Most groups will let you “try before you buy” so that you can see how comfortable you feel before spending your money. These professional groups will consist of people in your field at all levels of their careers, and can be a great way to naturally expand your network and hear about new opportunities when they arise. If you aren’t sure about the professional associations in your field, the US Government offers a database you can search on Career One Stop.
Take A Class
Is there a skill you’ve been meaning to brush up on or a certification you’ve been wanting to add to your resume? Sign up for a class or two. Classes are a great way to meet other people in your field with similar professional interests. The connections you make in class can help you expand your network and create lifelong relationships. Search your local colleges and universities or browse by location and field on Findcourses.com.
Be Social On Social Media
You’ve got a LinkedIn profile. You likely also have a Facebook profiles. But are you making use of those platforms? Join professional groups, and participate thoughtfully. Hiring managers often hang out in groups to keep an eye on up-and-coming talent. Spend a little time each day in these groups, answering questions, asking questions, adding to discussions and making new connections.
Tap Into An Instant Network
Successful networking doesn’t happen in a day, a week or even a month. It can take years to build a network before it begins to pay off. If you want to grow your network instantly and get the inside scoop on new opportunities, connect with a niche recruiter in your field. Recruiters achieve success by building their own extensive networks, and they can match you with the right opportunity to grow your career at just the right time.
If you are a talented job seeker searching for the right new opportunity to grow your career, the recruiters at Contemporary Staffing Solutions are here to help. We will partner with you to match you with positions that align with your career goals and help you grow over time. Contact us today to amplify your job search.