Whether you’re a brand new graduate or seeking a career change, having a solid network and fostering professional relationships should be key priorities.
Think about networking this way: You can – and should – always be doing it. Every time you make a call or send an email or text message, you’re connecting with someone, somewhere. Even coffee or lunch with a friend can lead to new contacts or leads.
So, maintain that networking mindset in all you do. Here are some other proactive steps to take:
Keep your resume updated.
Have a current resume ready for whenever you need it during the course of your job search, including networking.
Utilize LinkedIn to its full potential.
LinkedIn remains the largest digital professional network worldwide. Search for individuals across different positions within companies that pique your interest. A few more tips:
- Create an outstanding profile. Be sure every section is complete, with no obvious gaps or blank spaces.
- Be sure your headline is captivating, and your summary and experience sections are crisp and up to date. Use keywords strategically.
- Build your credibility with solid recommendations from colleagues, bosses, clients and others with whom you’ve had good professional relationships.
- Join groups and regularly post engaging content.
- Reach out to and follow up with the connections you make.
Use various social media platforms to your advantage.
While LinkedIn is a natural and necessary place to start, utilize various social media venues in your job search. The key is to go where you’re most likely to find your target contacts. Which platforms do they use regularly? Tap into Twitter and other popular favorites, but also look into more specialized sites that target relevant industries and interests related to your field.
- As you do on LinkedIn, become active in groups and conversations, share links and other content, and showcase your best professional self.
- Remove anything online that may reflect negatively on you: if in doubt, get rid of it. As you reach out to people, remember, it goes both ways. You, too, will be searched – and anything published about you will be seen.
Actively participate in professional groups.
Professional groups and associations are natural networking opportunities. And at the same time, you can sharpen your skills, keep up to date on industry developments, and gain certifications in your chosen field. Attend events. Join committees. Follow newsletters and chat groups, as well as participating in person.
Send a thank-you message.
It’s courteous and professional to send a brief thank-you note to people you connect with, to show you appreciate the time they took to meet with you and the information and resources they have shared.
- Make each note personal. Include something specific from a conversation the two of you had that impacted you. This will strengthen your message and ultimately, your relationship.
For additional tips on building your resume, networking, and carrying out your successful job search from start to finish, contact PrideStaff Fresno today.