Have you ever wondered why some people seem to have it so easy when it comes to landing a job while others have to submit dozens of applications before they can even get a reply? It’s all about networking. People who know the importance of networking and are good at it, are good at finding jobs. Looking for a job is like trying to sell a product; the difference is that you are the product here and it’s your skills that you have for sale.
Unless you are the only one in the entire job market with the exact qualifications employers are looking for, you’ll need more than just your resume to get noticed. Networking makes you known to employers and to people who might recommend you to employers. It helps you get to know successful people in your field of work who can offer invaluable advice and help in finding a job.
Most jobs are not advertised
The number of jobs advertised in the newspapers and websites is nothing compared to the number of jobs that are never advertised. It is estimated that between 70 and 80 percent of the jobs are not published. So who gets these jobs? The people who know the importance of networking and network actively. This means joining professional networks such as LinkedIn, communicating with other members of the network regularly, and actually going out and talking to would-be employers.
Preference is given to personal connections
It is no secret that the a lot of hiring is done through personal connections, such as friends and acquaintances. Because of this, you will never get to hear of a job opening unless you know an employer or someone who knows the employer. Employers place a considerable preference for candidates they personally know and can trust. So instead of poring over advertisements all day and sending applications, you should utilize your time networking with professionals, honing up your skills, and communicating with employers.
Advertised jobs attract too much competition
Companies do advertise a lot of jobs on job boards and on their websites. But they attract too much competition because most job seekers have access to the ads. The competition is such that big companies typically receive about six times as many applications as the total number of its employees, according to Ashley Stirrup, Vice President of Product Marketing at Taelo. So, a company with 10,000 employees would receive 60,000 applications in a year. What are your chances of getting the job?
Networking makes you aware of your capabilities and deficiencies
Professional networking is about connecting with other professionals and sharing knowledge and information with them. Successful and experienced members of a network often provide free advice to other members of the networks on the qualifications, skills and experiences needed for certain jobs. So, regular interaction with other members of the network makes you aware of your capabilities and deficiencies. You can use their advice to build your professional skills to make yourself more attractive to employers.
Need some help honing your networking skills? At TempsAhead, we specialize in connecting skilled job seekers with top-notch employers. Let us help you grow you network and find your dream job!
