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7 Networking Tips to Build Connections for a job

Spruce InfoTech Inc.

Spruce InfoTech Ranked on Inc. 5000 List of?America's Fastest-Growing Private Companies?for Fourth Year in a?Row.

发布日期: 2022年9月22日

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Well, in a world gone wild with the technological advances that we have, it's clear that nobody is going to take care of our careers. No longer can we depend on one person or organization to help us jump-start our careers, but must now work hard at it ourselves. Networks, if you haven't already heard, are the new buzzword in business. Networks are made up of relationships built on trust and understanding — two fundamental components of successful networking.

According to one study, for example:

Around 80 percent of jobs get filled through personal and professional connections, rather than job boards and other formal channels.
In fact, a full 70 percent of job opportunities aren’t even made public on job sites in the first place for that very reason.

Professional networking is vital to building your professional network and keeping current with the most recent industry trends. Without it, you simply can't reach out to people who could offer you an opportunity unless the more aggressive methods – cold calling or applying for jobs online – are employed first. These seven tips from the hiring experts at Spruce have you covered.

Networking tips to find a job

Even though networking for a job might be challenging at the moment, don't be discouraged. You can start by following some straight-forward advice if you're not sure how.

It is now estimated that the average American adult spends more than 16 hours using a phone or computer every day. So, if you’re networking for a job, the takeaway should be clear: People are reachable these days — in fact, now more than ever.

Even though networking is a relatively new concept, the second key to success is the same as it was a decade ago. Networking can sometimes be beneficial in the short term, but the real benefit usually comes downstream. Creating new connections with like-minded individuals is the goal of networking. That's all. The process of building meaningful relationships isn't easy, and it doesn't happen overnight.

So bear in mind that all the goodies — job referrals, employment insights, additional networking opportunities — will come later.

Online webinars. Virtual meetups. Social media channels. We discussed that people are available, so you may need to get creative. Digital connectivity will better position you for success if you take advantage of it.

Our tips will help you take a more structured approach, think strategically, and successfully land the right job if you aren't 100 percent certain about what's best for you.

Following a few simple rules of thumb will help you select the right channel for your outreach. You'll always keep everyone's good graces with these tips.

Text: When texting first-hand contacts, it's fine to do so. These are people you know and have met before. However, don't jump right into meeting someone if someone in your current network shares their number. Start with a short, polite introductory text message before reaching out to them with a phone call. This is the right way to ask for an informational interview.
?Email: Networking through this channel is without a doubt the most effective - and most appropriate - option right now. You will also have the opportunity to think about your goals and priorities in a structured manner by writing a polite introductory email.?This is another smart channel to use if you’re going to ask for an informational interview.
Phone: Unless you already have a relationship with someone within your network, it would probably be wise to avoid cold-calling, anyone, directly right now without first having a text-based communication or setting up an introduction.?Once that’s in place, you can set up a call.
Social media: Networking and professional development-oriented social media channels are generally a good place to reach out to relevant potential contacts.?Just be polite and clear about your goals from the outset.