Being in job search is no joke. It’s a daunting experience for those that are facing the realities of age, corporate consolidation, technology, or are graduating from college and will be new to an ever-changing marketplace.
I’m honored to be the keynote speaker at an upcoming event at Rutgers University with the focus on networking and job search. As I prepare for the presentation, I thought it would be helpful to job searchers, and even business owners and sales professionals, to highlight some of my speaking points here!
Know What Networking Is
Networking is NOT about pitching your skills (or product). It IS about meeting fellow networkers to explore ways you can learn, help, and connect with one another.
Get More Confident With Networking
Do your homework and learn about networking. There are lots of great books (including mine!) that will help you develop the game plan. Then follow the game plan, make adjustments, and get better each time. Then, you will be more confident and maybe have more fun.
Ask Great Networking Questions
Your first job is learning how to ask great questions. Lots of them. In fact, prepare questions that you would want to be asked of you. Pro tip – focus on questions that are NOT work or job related. Think sports, current events, special occasions, and other light social topics. Then the work questions will be much easier to discuss.
Be Clear on What You Want in Your Job Search
What industry, profession, market segment, niche, department, geography, and companies do you want to work in or work for? Be specific. Develop a list of target companies that you want to learn about so when you’re networking, you can ask questions about those specific companies. Especially as you attend association meetings in your target market.
Attend Professional Association Meetings
The great thing about having a target market and a list of target companies is it will indicate what professional associations you might attend. Associations are usually aligned with specific industries and professions.
Be Active on LinkedIn
Connect with professionals in your target industry and with your target companies. Don’t “lead” with job search and what you might be looking for. Just look to connect. Then invite your connections to ultimately meet to explore ways of being helpful to one another. Work on developing relationships in your target market.
The common denominator with these approaches is human connection and developing relationships. Yes, you should be applying for posted positions, but most opportunities come from introductions and referrals so do all you can to be in the right place, say the right things, and meet the right people. And take this opportunity to develop your skills, your network, and your confidence.
If you have specific questions about networking, job search, and business development, just ask!
Pow!
What is your favorite job search or networking strategy?
