Networking
Gone are the days when networking meant slapping on a name tag at an industry event, trying to make small talk with strangers, and exchanging business cards that would inevitably be lost or tossed.
But there is still a valuable role that networking plays in your job search. Many jobs are posted for public viewing, but a lot of them are not. They’re filled internally or from within a manager’s network. And even if you do find the perfect position posted online, having a contact who works at the company is definitely going to boost your chances of getting your application in front of the right person.
So how do you go about networking? Try these approaches.
Leverage LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a great place to start building connections in a world that is more virtual than ever. Just make sure your profile is up-to-date. If you are new to LinkedIn, or haven’t used it much, that’s okay. At the bottom of this section, you can download an easy to use checklist to help get your LinkedIn profile in great shape. As you work on your profile, here are some tips if you aren’t sure how to address your career break on LinkedIn. Be sure to explore some of the lesser known features, like getting LinkedIn recommendations to find out how they can help your job search.
Get information
Networking can also be a pivotal part of figuring out what kind of job is best for you. By talking with friends, old colleagues, and acquaintances you can learn about different roles that exist in your career or outside of it and what skills are required.” Tap into other people’s knowledge, pick their brain, and ask questions. Most people are willing and happy to share information.
Network everywhere
Cast your net wide when networking. When you volunteer at your local park, attend a faith-based group, wait at school pick-up, or take part in a book club, use the opportunity to let your circle know about your job search. These kinds of activities offer a chance to network in a conversational way that, for many people, is more enjoyable than a formal networking event. The more you connect with people, the better your chances of getting a tip, advice, referral, name, reference, and maybe even an interview.
Get your pitch perfect
Your goal is to build relationships, whether it happens in-person or virtually. As you start networking, be sure to have your elevator pitch ready. This is a short introduction that gives just enough information to catch someone’s interest, but not too much to bore them. Sounds easy, right? It can actually be harder than you think to do this on the spot, so take some time to get your pitch perfect before you start networking. Be sure to include a few sentences about your break because you might be asked about it and need to be prepared.
Path Forward Community
Looking for a low-risk place to perfect your networking skills? Check out Path Forward’s online community. It a great place to start building your network, including with other returners who have successfully returned to work. Practice your pitch as you get to know people, ask questions and offer support to others along their journey!
Show gratitude
And remember, expressing gratitude goes a long way. Always send a follow-up “thank you” or “so nice to meet you” email. We promise it will be appreciated and remembered. And so will you!
Keep in mind that successful networking isn’t just about your agenda. It’s about being open and honest and forging relationships. It’s not “what can you do for me” but about getting to know people and letting them get to know you. Through that process of discovery you will find people you can help and people who can help you.
LinkedIn Checklist
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