There seems to be a misconception about the purpose of networking during a job search. Sure it would be wonderful if everyone you spoke with could hire you. But that’s not the only reason you should be networking.
Networking is a way to make connections with other people who can offer you something beneficial to your career. That may be an employment opportunity; however, it may be entrance into a coveted organization, a free piece of career advice or it may be something else.
Before you ignore the importance of what networking can do to enhance your job search, consider these five reasons why you should network during your job search.
Has Connections with Other Employers
The most obvious reason to network with someone who cannot offer you employment is their connection to someone in another company who can; or even someone in another company who knows someone who can. That’s how networking works.
People who are heavily invested in their careers often belong to business associations where others who share their passion meet and mingle. That means lots of people in the same field, but from different organizations that may have positions that need to be filled.
Can Refer You to Industry Insiders
Another great reason to network with people is to make connections in the industry where you would like to work, especially if it is an industry where you have no prior experience and/or one that is cliquish (such as the entertainment business).
If you don’t know someone who knows someone, consider meeting industry insiders by attending a business event. It could be a business conference, external training program, industry association meeting or job fair. Or look around your area for a job club – a group of job seekers who get together to assist with job hunting and career advice.
Works in the Career You Want or Knows Someone Who Does
Perhaps the person you are networking with can’t offer you a job, but what if they were working in the job you want or could introduce you to the person who does?
First, by knowing them you may have a shot at their job should they decide to leave. Next, whether they work in the job you want or they know someone who does, landing an informational interview can do a lot to help your job search efforts and career.
Works in a Company You Want to Work For
Employee referrals are a popular way for many organizations to identify and hire employees. Networking just might introduce you to someone who works in an organization that is on your short list of possible employers. This person may not do the hiring; may do the hiring, but not have any openings; or may work in a department not suitable for your career aspirations.
However, by knowing them you have a pipeline into future employment opportunities because there is a good chance that if their employer pays for referrals, they will gladly take advantage of the opportunity to offer your skills for the right opening.
Knows of an Opportunity to Grow Your Career
Networking isn’t just about employment opportunities, it is about career opportunities. One of the best reasons to network with others is to learn and to expand your career horizons.
My first step in my writing career was a referral from a person I had met during a monthly business association meeting. She knew of another business association that needed someone to take over coordinating their monthly newsletter. I did it for two years. It was a great experience and taught me a lot. In addition, it allowed me to network with other people.
Networking isn’t just about finding the perfect employment opportunity. It’s about a whole lot more – maybe even making a connection that lasts a lifetime.
That’s why you should network, even if they aren’t going to hire you.
Deborah S. Hildebrand - Deborah S. Hildebrand is a freelance writer & HR consultant with 20+ years in human resources & a Bachelor's degree in Business.
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