What is your best job search tool?

Networking! If you pride yourself on being independent, you might think you don’t need a network to be successful, but you do. Meaningful connections are crucial to achieving success-it takes a village. If you don’t like networking, try to reframe your mindset.

Here are 4 strategies to turn networking in to something you could enjoy.

  1. Understand what networking is — and isn’t

It’s not connecting on LinkedIn and asking for something. Build relationships over time so that when you do need something, you have built credibility to ask for it.

  • Identify people you truly respect

Did you hear a speaker you enjoyed? Connect and thank them for the time and tell them what interested you about the topic. Network with professors, neighbors, fellow club members, alumni and more.

  • Recognize how a lack of networking may be holding you back

80% of jobs are found through networking. If you don’t have connections, how are you going to find out about opportunities?

  • Identify your vehicle for networking

LinkedIn is your best tool in this virtual world. Remember LinkedIn groups, Facebook groups, Meetups and more.

Read more in this Harvard Business Review article

Spread the love