Article by: Zanele Gumede (HR Practitioner)
When you engage with different people you hear about all the multitudinous ways in which they found employment. One thing we can agree on is that gone are the days when someone left school and got a job immediately and stayed in the same job until retirement.
Today we explore Networking as a strategy to positioning yourself for better opportunities and strategizing to keep your career moving onwards and upwards! There is some wisdom in the saying that it’s who you know that brings success in getting a job. Networking is another word for socializing.
You can join professional associations, attend events for graduates of your school, connect with professionals who work in your field, and take every chance you get to meet up, in person or online, with others in your field.
Consider the following:
• It is estimated that only 20 percent of new jobs and vacancies are advertised or posted.
• A Website posting for a job typically yields over 200 applicants for a position.
• Sixty to eighty percent of jobs are found through personal contact and networking. Various online sites such as LinkedIn allow you to broaden your network to include friends of friends.
The bigger your network, the more likely you’ll find out about new opportunities. Building a network requires consistent work, and a strong network will take time to achieve. That is why we recommend you start building your professional network now—even early in your college career.
Your network should include anyone who might have a connection that will help: family, friends, neighbors, past and present coworkers, bosses, people you met through associations and clubs (especially business associations), alumni from your college, and acquaintances you have met via online networking. Network! Network! Network!
This has proven to help one build a credible brand and in so doing letting more people know about yourself, your skillset and past work successes. Networking, online and in person, is one of the best ways to stay on top of what’s happening in your field, including what jobs are open and where. If you are unsure of where to begin check in on job search sites frequently.
For best results, look for one that specializes in your field. Don’t dismiss temporary or freelance work – They often lead to full-time opportunities. Whatever your choices, invest the time to learn to use them well; you’ll be very glad you did.