1. Get the word
out that you are in a job search.
2. Gain advice
about your job search techniques.
3. Uncover job
leads in the “hidden job market.”
4. Get referrals
to other individuals or organizations that you’re targeting.
5. Learn more
about specific positions, fields, or industries.
6. Gather
information about specific companies.
7. Expand your
network.
8. Keep your
current network alive while meeting new people.
9. Help others get
what they want, even if it’s a warm introduction from you.
It’s important to let your network know that you are in a
job search. They can’t help you if they don’t know! And without clearly defined
job targets, i.e., specific positions, industries, and companies you are
seeking, it can be even harder for your network to help. Job seekers often tell
me, “I’m open. I’ll work for any company or industry.” While that may be true,
the more focused you are, the better your job search; the easier you make it
for others to help you.
Your network can provide you feedback on your job search
techniques and refer you to other individuals or organizations. They can also
offer insight into a new position, field, or industry if you are contemplating
a job or career change. And, your network can share with you what it’s like to
work at a particular company.
Many job openings aren’t advertised. Considered the “hidden
job market,” it’s your job to uncover those leads. Employers oftentimes go to
their employees for referrals when trying to fill an open position. Imagine if
your name was recommended. It clearly puts you in front of other candidates. I
encourage my clients to create a list of target companies and then do an
advanced search on LinkedIn to identify contacts that work at those companies.
Oftentimes it’s your second or third level contacts that are going to be most
helpful in your search. Ask your first level contacts to introduce you to your
second level contacts that work at your target companies.
Harvey MacKay, business guru, and author of Use Your Head to
Get Your Foot in the Door and Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty, encourages
those just laid-off to immediately start volunteering. Consider volunteering on
a high-profile fundraising event for a local charity. Not only will it allow
you the opportunity to develop or fine-tune your leadership, fundraising,
and/or speaking skills, it will give you a chance to network with people in
high places. It will also give you a reason to get out of the house, make you
feel much better, PLUS, when you’re asked, and you will be asked “What have you
been doing since your last job?” Now you have an opening line………"I’ve been
volunteering………….."
Grab a copy of my free eBook, Get a Job, Keep a Job, or Move Up- faster!
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