How can you use your professional network to access exclusive job opportunities?

My top tips for identifying roles that aren't being advertised: 1. Focus on your existing network - reach out to them and ask for a virtual coffee chat to catch up. You should get between a 20-50% hit rate depending on how warm you've kept your network. 2. For each coffee chat aim to do 2 things: - Solve a problem for them. Ask them how things are going & offer some ideas/advice/resources - Mention you are on the market and 'Is there anyone you think it would be useful for me to reach out to?' Make it clear you aren't going to pitch that person but that you're looking to expand your network. If it's a yes ask for an intro. For every person you meet, give value. Very quickly someone will say 'Oh we need to talk about working here'.

Determining your target companies is a crucial step in your job search. Before engaging with your network, define the type of job you're seeking and identify companies that align with your goals. Conduct thorough research on the industry, market, and competitors. Create a list of target companies and prioritize them based on your preferences and fit. This strategic approach will streamline your job search, allowing you to concentrate your efforts more effectively.

Ex-Recruiter Insight: Make a list of your dream companies, but don’t just focus on the big names. Research their competitors and lesser-known companies in the same industry. Actionable Tip: Use tools like LinkedIn and industry-specific forums to learn about company culture and potential openings. Sample Script for Networking: "I've always admired [Company Name] for its innovative approach to [industry-specific issue]. I'm curious about potential opportunities they might have for someone with my background in [your expertise]."

Ex-Recruiter Insight: Your current network is your treasure trove. An existing contact is more likely to respond than a cold outreach. Actionable Tip: Reach out to former colleagues, classmates, or acquaintances working in your target companies or fields. Sample Script for Reaching Out: “Hi [Name], I hope you’ve been well. I saw that you’re now with [Company], a place I’ve been interested in exploring career opportunities. Could we catch up sometime to discuss your experience there?”

You need to let everyone know that you are in need of a new opportunity. For instance, if u want an opportunity in a given field, you should stress to your network that you actually want this, so that every time they hear of anything in that field, they think you. You don't need to shy away, you need to open up. You need to strive to link with people in a particular field where u seek for opportunities, such as professional groups, alumni etc, so that you contribute in discussions and when any opportunity comes up, you have the information first hand

Ex-Recruiter Insight: Join professional associations, attend industry conferences, and participate in webinars to meet new contacts in your field. Actionable Tip: Engage in online forums and LinkedIn groups related to your industry. Share your thoughts and contribute to discussions. Example of Engagement: Comment on a LinkedIn post related to your field, adding your unique perspective, and then follow up with the poster to establish a direct connection.

Ex-Recruiter Insight: Building a relationship takes time. Regular, genuine engagement is key to keeping your network active. Actionable Tip: Schedule regular check-ins or updates with your network, even if it’s just sharing an interesting article or congratulating them on a new role. Sample Follow-Up Message: “Hi [Name], I recently came across this article on [industry topic] and immediately thought of our last conversation. Would love to hear your thoughts on it!”

Utiliser votre réseau pour accéder à des offres d’emploi exclusives demande d’oser, inspiré par l’expérience de Milgram, et de patienter, à la manière de la théorie du chamallow. Osez sortir de votre zone de confort pour contacter des personnes influentes, en montrant votre valeur unique. En même temps, soyez patient et stratégique, construisant des relations à long terme qui, avec le temps, révéleront des opportunités précieuses.

Before you start networking, it is important to consider the value that you bring to the next employer and your branding strategy that goes together with your networking strategy. - Have a think on your plans and priorities that may have changed and evolved in your life. -Reflect on projects or anything that you can do on the side to gain more skills or show your expertise in. This can be a great way to showcase your potential and talent. -Choose how you position yourself especially if you are amid a career transition.

Contrarian Advice: Use informational interviews not just to learn but to subtly pitch yourself. It’s a low-pressure way to express interest in future opportunities. Ex-Recruiter Insight: Tailor your LinkedIn profile to reflect the kind of roles you're targeting. This makes it easier for recruiters and contacts in your network to see your fit for these roles. Example for LinkedIn: Regularly post about your industry insights and engage with content from your target companies to increase visibility.