Last week we provided job seekers with a few tips for networking purposes, designed to guide those in the market of filling vacancies. Click here for part one. To briefly recap, we discussed: identifying your existing network, how to reach out to your existing contact, and ways to improve your communication skills. In part two of this entry, we’ll continue with three additional thoughts we feel can propel prospective employees to finding their dream job!
Evaluate Your Network. Maybe the tips we’ve provided thus far haven’t worked. I’m sure you’re asking yourself, how can I rebound? Well, no need to panic. Take this time to rate your network. Maybe there are more weaknesses there, than strengths. Ask yourself a few questions:
1. Do I trust my network to give me the truth about myself?
2. Does my network challenge me as much as it supports me?
3. Does my network represent my future goals as much as my past goals?
After you’ve done so you should remove any weak points and focus solely on those who have shaped together to create a stronger network for yourself.
Taking Advantage of Both Strong and Weak Connections. In most situations, strong ties in your network are usually those who are friends and family or acquaintances you’ve known for quite some time. Weak ties are those relationships that are less established and may require a bit more attention. It’s not easy balancing the two but when done, you’ve strengthened your network drastically. Tap into your stronger connections always, because as a prospective employee, connecting with your strong ties will more than likely lead you to relationship building with weak ties.
Remember to think about where you want to go as a professional. Keep up with your career field by connecting with those who reflect issues, jobs, industries, and areas of interest. This process should be a priority.
Maintaining Your Network. This is maybe the most vital tip for establishing your network. Hold yourself accountable to continuously remember to do these four simple things: scheduling time with your key contacts, prioritizing the rest of your contacts, taking notes on the people in your network, and finding ways to reciprocate. The first three are fairly self-explanatory but the last “to do,” suggests that networking is always a two-way street and the ultimate goal is to create vital relationships.
This advice has been collected by staffing firm recruiters. Visit our Job Search page for all current available openings and contact us if you need more help landing a job.
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