I agree with the statistic that 80 percent of jobs that get filled involve some level of networking. It only makes sense that people hire someone they know or someone who whose opinion they trust.
Not to get bogged down in statistics, but job applicants have eight times the chance of getting the job if someone within the company walks them down to HR for an introduction.
The reason is simple.
If a current employee is recommending someone for a job at their company, they’re probably confident that this person will work out. After all, the current employee knows the needs of both the applicant and the company. They’re putting their own reputation on the line when recommending a candidate.
So, exactly what is networking for success and how should you go about doing it?
Mo Bunnel, an Atlanta-based author and expert networker, says we need to recognize the potential of everyday interactions as networking opportunities. It’s all about integrating the habit of networking seamlessly into our daily conversations. By actively listening, establishing rapport, offering assistance, and introducing colleagues, we can transform ordinary exchanges into meaningful networking experiences.
Make sure you’re
as visible as possible
When you’ve decided that you want to make a move, the first thing I’d recommend is to make sure you’re as visible as possible. Attend conferences, conventions and especially local association meetings in your field.
Once there, be selective about whom you sit with, and be sure to engage in conversation with everyone at the table. Ask them questions about their background and why they’re attending this event.
Be interested in where they work, and casually mention that you’re looking for a new position. Be ready to give your 30-second elevator speech.
Ask for the contact information of anyone whom you think might be of help. Be sure to offer how you can help them. Remember, it’s not all about you.
Recently, a friend who works in nonprofits said that when she was ready to change jobs, she invited six friends to dinner — all of whom are working in nonprofits. Dinner ended with three great leads.
As the owner of a company that hires 10,000 people a year, I consider myself a good networking target. After all, all we do is hire people and work with hundreds of HR people. However, the truth is that it’s pretty hard to get an appointment with me unless you’re recommended by a client, a good friend, or definitely, my wife.
When I do meet with someone, and I’m impressed, I’ll tell them to keep in touch.
Our business changes daily and we never know what we’ll be looking for on behalf of our clients. I’ll tell them that if they see an opportunity at a company where they don’t know anyone to check back with me.
Maybe we can open a door for them.
Their networking skills
need lots of enhancing
I’m always amazed, as well as disappointed, that the majority of these people never bother to follow up with me. Some I never hear from again.
To be sure, it’s a lost opportunity and their networking skills need lots of enhancing. I suggest that they maintain a list of people like me whom they’ve networked with and use it as their support team.
This group can include people who are also in the midst of their own job search. It’s always nice to have others sending you opportunities that may not be right for them, but might be a good fit for you.
And you, of course, need to reciprocate.
You want to be top of mind to this group so they’ll remember you in case they run into an opportunity.
When you do land a position, be sure to send an email to everyone you met with or helped you. Let them know of your success and thank them for their support. You may need them again sometime.
These networking skills are going to be valuable over your entire career. If your job involves any kind of sales, it’s an essential key to your success.
In any job search, you have one product to sell, and that is yourself.
Blair is co-founder of Manpower Staffing and can be reached at pblair@manpowersd.com.