Networking To Find A New Job - What Is It?
When you're looking for a new job, it's important to keep in mind that it's not necessarily the best suited and qualified person which gets the job, but often the one who knows the most about how to get hired. Some people feel uncomfortable getting a job based on who they know rather than what they know, but networking is a fact of life.
Networking can be an important way of getting hired, and is definitely an effective employment strategy, but what is it? And how is it done?
Because of the nature of the job market these days, many people fear that their current job may become obsolete. People are likely to need to reapply their skills into different jobs throughout their lives.
Networking is a process of interacting with people who share similar interests. It normally involves the sharing of information about these shared areas of interests, and often the passing on of names and contact details who also share those interests. The idea is that it is beneficial for everyone involved.
It is a great way of getting new contacts and up-to-date information, many people are networking when they think they are socialising. Others find it very hard, especially as a way of finding employment.
It is generally agreed that in these networks, the more you give, the more you get back. To many organisations this goes against their general policy, and they tend to hold back knowledge for paying clients.
But there are three clear benefits of networking; it will help you find a job, either now or when you need one, it tends to mean your pay and promotion within your current role will pick up speed, and you also have the ability to become influential within the network.
Many jobs are never advertised, they are filled through referrals and recommendations, direct approaches by candidates and by using agencies. It saves companies time and money on advertising roles and means the candidate is more likely to be experienced in a relevant area.
Networking can lead to an introduction or a "warm" referral. It can also help you build your knowledge and skills, and builds a team of potential colleagues, sub contractors and mentors.
Networking can help job seekers connect with people who need their skills, and can increase their value as an employee. It doesn't have to be hard-nosed business talk, it's just about cultivating relationships and keeping them alive through changing circumstances.
Article Source: Daily Digest Magazine
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