Networking To Get Hired

Networking is an important step in the list of preparations for beginning your job search journey. Seventy-eight percent of employers use employee referrals as their primary method of recruitment. Once you have made the decision to actively begin seeking employment, or making a career change, you should start discussing your decision with anyone who will listen. You never know who may have a lead, or may have heard of an available position through the grapevine. Get in touch with friends employed in your area of interest and do lunch. If you belong to some sort of group or club begin discussions with other people about their plans to join the workforce, or start a blog on a website where you can share information, personal stories, and tips about the job market. If you’re not already a member of any clubs, join one. Also be sure to attend alumni events, many of these organizations have online newsletters, communities, and job boards. Another really great source of information is job fairs and expos. Even if you don’t walk away with the job leads you were hoping for, job fairs and expos will give you the opportunity to ask companies questions and to get a feel for what companies are looking for these days. Use job fairs and expos as an opportunity to work on your interviewing skills by engaging in conversation with the people working the booths.

The most important thing you can do for yourself when trying to break into the workforce, or making a career change, is make your intentions known. So get out there and get the process started!