networking

HOW TO USE CREATIVE NETWORKING STRATEGIES IN YOUR JOB SEARCH

You’ve got a strong resume, excellent skills, knowledge and experience, and yet opportunities seem to be passing you by. Sound familiar?

If you can see others getting ahead, while you stay put, chances are they’ve been steadily growing a network. There’s nothing to stop you doing the same.

Here’s how to use creative networking strategies in your job search.

If you don’t have an online presence, now is the time to create one. Social media platforms appeal to different audiences, so you’ll need to choose the one/s that work best in your line of business. These might include LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Once you have a profile, use it to build your personal brand. To be effective, aim to be active on your various platforms at least several times a week. Connect with others in similar roles or with similar professional interests. Amplify their voices by liking or sharing their content. And create your own posts that clearly reflect who you are and what you’re interested in.

Attend conferences, seminars, workshops and office parties that are relevant to your role – or future role. You might have to pick and choose to suit your budget and time constraints, but it’ll be worth it. Being present an important starting point for networking.

If you attend in-person, consider getting some business cards printed. Or go digital and share your professional details with a simple tap or scan of your phone.

It can be helpful to set out with a goal in mind when you attend an event. At an in-person conference, you might aim to gain contact details from three people before you leave. If you’re in a virtual workshop, perhaps set out to contribute a couple of interesting discussion points, whether that’s live or in a chat. Focus on meaningful, authentic conversations and contributions. Tailoring your participation to individual people and settings is key. You’re more likely to leave a lasting impression that way.

Build profiles of the professionals you connect with, whether that’s online or offline. And aim to reach out to them on a regular basis. If you’re one of those people who finds it tricky to keep track of time, set a reminder to check in with people in your network every 3 to 6 months. Ideally, you’ll be able to provide a reason for checking in. You might reach out to share news or useful information. Or if you find yourself in the same city as someone in your network, why not see if they’re free for a coffee and catch-up?

Be open to questions and happy to support others. You can do this through your social media presence or at in-person and virtual events. You don’t have to know all the answers; in some cases, you may simply be connecting people to others in your network. What goes around comes around. When people value your time and assistance, they’ll be more likely to help you when you come asking.

The key to networking is to start early and keep going. Even when you’re not looking for a job. Avoid transactional relationships and focus on building and nurturing a network of genuine professional contacts. Be present, be active and offer help. Networking will enhance your profile, provide you with valuable insights and open doors to new opportunities.

Add the Optimal Recruitment team to your network! Contact our professional team today on info@optimalrecruitment.com.au or 02 8416 4181.