Welcome back readers! The past three issues have covered some key networking topics – but they did not explain why you should network. After all, it does take significant time and effort, and success is certainly not always guaranteed, particularly if you are just getting started.
To start off with some cold facts, only about 20% of job searchers find jobs through advertisements or public messages that employers put out. Competition for these jobs is always very high because all qualified candidates will be able to see that they are available and thus will be able to apply. This in turn creates issues at the employer end, as no one wants to read through 500+ resumes!
Well, we all know what that means – you need an inside track. Put yourself in the employers’ shoes: wouldn’t you rather hire someone you know you’re comfortable and familiar with? This is where networking comes in.
A brief informational interview is a great way to getting to know a potential employer and ask questions about the field, but it alone isn’t not always enough to get a job, particularly if the company isn’t hiring at the time of the interview. Following up with your interviewees is critical since it’s difficult to remember someone you’ve only spoken with once on the phone for 20 minutes.
During a follow-up or even an informational interview, it’s always good to mention a few of your interests or hobbies. Common interests are a solid foundation of all new relationships so use them to your advantage. Remember, being ‘interested in working at their company’ is not an interest or hobby! No matter what your hobby may be, it tells the employer something of note about you, thereby helping them remember you better. If you’re lucky, they too enjoy that particular hobby and voilà you’ve got yourself a new friend who may be able to help you out at some point!
It’s clear that networking is definitely a great tool when it comes to finding jobs in times of scarcity. This especially applies to young professionals just starting out in the workplace, particularly because new workers often lack experience in the industry or field. Though networking does take some time and effort, it is generally a rewarding experience.
You network every time you meet someone knew. Sometimes you’re able to maintain a friendship with the person, other times not so much. But when you’re in the market for jobs, it’s in your best interests to maintain as many of these new contacts as you can. Even if you can’t get the job right away, you never know what will happen a few years down the road.
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