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Exact figures are hard to confirm but somewhere between 20 and 50% of all job vacancies are not advertised in the media or job search websites. Networking is your best opportunity to access a broader range of opportunities. With current technology and social media networking this is easier than ever before. If you want to take a proactive approach to finding a new opportunity, particularly in the current market, you can:
Let your networks know you are actively looking for a job.
This can be communicated to your online networks through your status updates on many of the common websites. This will make your network your job search agents keeping you informed of relevant opportunities with their company or that they hear of amongst their network. Obviously use common sense and caution if you are currently employed and be sure your network have positive things to say about your work and professionalism.
Do your research.
With the online information age, blogs and a myriad of other up to the minute information sites, makes it easier than ever to find out information relevant to any career pursuit. For the Australian Resource sector, you might consider checking out www.mineblogger.com.au. It is a perfect tool to keep up to date with what is happening in the resource industry and open your eyes to companies, projects and opportunities you may never have known existed.
Research is important for two reasons. One, it will help you with networking conversations, either as conversation starters or in adding value to a discussion. Being knowledgeable in a field and adding value becomes your point of difference that ensures you are remembered and referred. Secondly, being well informed can help you target your networking efforts towards companies and sectors where job opportunities may exist (but are not necessarily making it to the mainstream media).
Expand your networks through Networking events.
There are countless ways that you can get involved in active networking, including the events of relevant industry bodies such as AusIMM and APPEA, through business associations like AIM or CCI and through networking organisations such as Via Appia –Networking WA and Toastmasters.
For those that find networking difficult, look for a format that works for you. Speed networking is an increasingly popular format which coordinates quick discussions with many people throughout the course of an event and is a great way to spread the word that you are seeking career opportunities. If you are an experienced professional, speaking on your field of expertise, is one of the best networking opportunities available and a great way to attract career opportunities.
In today’s changing market you need to be proactive in ensuring you have access to the best opportunities. As many as half of those job opportunities will never be advertised so you need to get out there and promote ‘Brand You’, ensuring your network is feeding information about opportunities back to you.
One final tip, the key to successful networking is reciprocity. Be ready to share knowledge, provide advice and give something before you expect to receive anything in return. Not only may you find that next job, you’ll no doubt establish sound long term professional contacts magnifying the long term strength of your networking efforts.
http://www.networkingwa.com.au
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