Whether you’re seeking a new employment opportunity or simply looking for a way to stay connected with like-minded people, networking will serve you in many ways. Networking skills are far more essential in the pursuit of a job than technical skills will ever be. With the rise of social media and a global business environment, the need for building relationships has also skyrocketed.

Here’s why networking is the best way to get your foot in the door of opportunities.

5 Reasons Why You Must Build Your Networking Skills

They Help You Form New Connections

According to a 2016 survey, 85% of jobs are filled through networking. According to estimates from various other sources, about 80% of jobs are not even posted. And so, accessing that “hidden job market” is only possible through powerful connections.

This is where building connections comes in handy. Forming relationships with those in your field can provide crucial references and help distinguish you well from other candidates.

Networking Opportunities Can Help You Fix Your Resume

Imagine coming across a reputed C-suite executive recruitment service at a networking event but not being able to leave an impression due to a poor resume. While a resume does not form your entire professional identity, it does help leave your first impression on a potential employer. Networking can expose you to connections that give you important feedback on your resume.

As a result, you can fix minor errors and also work on adding more in-demand skills and qualifications to it. The more you tailor your resume to a particular employer’s preferences, the more appealing you are as a candidate to them.

They Help You Create a Professional Brand

Word of mouth is a valuable marketing tool. But it’s even more valuable for those building their networking skills. How so? You may be wondering. The more people you meet, the more likely to mention  you, your skills, qualifications, and work ethic to others.

You can tell you’ve networked successfully when people talk about you to others and establish you as a respected and reputable professional. Furthermore, networking helps you create your own professional brand and presents you as an expert in your field, making you even more attractive to potential employers.

They Broaden Your Perspective

The biggest benefit of making professional connections is that you’re always in the flow of valuable information about things like:

• New trends
• Market shifts
• Technical innovations, etc.

The more you participate in multiple communities, the better your eye for insights and trends, especially if they’re related to your field.

They Help You Get References

While you can persuade your boss to write a glowing letter about your performance at work, it likely won’t leave an impression on a new potential employer. This is because references from people known and trusted by the hiring company are much more valuable.

Any reputable New York executive recruitment firm will agree that the more people you know, the better your chances of identifying contacts willing to speak up for you. What’s more? According to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, employees are much happier with jobs they get through networking than through other means.

8 Best Networking Tips

 

It goes without saying that networking helps you meet industry experts you may not get a chance to meet otherwise. If your network is small and lacks powerful connections, meeting industry leaders is your best bet at expanding it. Here are 8 tips for networking well.

Network In-Person

While it’s much easier to network from behind your computer screen, nothing can challenge the supremacy of in-person networking. This means taking the time to schedule lunches, attend industry-specific conventions, go to social events and job fairs, etc.

Challenge Your Fears

Improving your networking skills requires you to be outgoing, which may pose a challenge if you’re an introvert. Encourage yourself to step out of your comfort zone bit by bit. Prepare questions, answer them, and rehearse beforehand. Don’t worry about the outcome of each and every meeting, and keep expanding your contacts gradually.

Perform Minor Tasks as a Gesture of Help

The best way to form contacts is by offering help in some capacity. By performing minor tasks and assisting someone in a project, you can present yourself as someone genuinely interested in an organization. This will also help potential employers gain insight into your abilities and habits as a potential employee.

Be Patient

Remember, networking skills don’t develop overnight. It can take a number of errors and mismatched meetings to finally be in a place where you can interact confidently. Similarly, cultivating professional relationships can also take time.

Call for an Informational Interview

If you have a desired company/employer in mind, go with the intent of getting to know the job or the company instead of directly applying for a job. Going for an informational interview shows your genuine interest in understanding the company environment and determining whether you are a cultural fit.

Use Online Resources

Sometimes, in-person meetings are not enough to maximize your reach. This is where reinforcing relationships through social media comes in handy. Making online contacts can be an addition to your networking efforts, so you’re able to form contacts with people all over the world.

Arrive Early

While it seems trivial, arriving early to networking events can help you get ahead of others. You’re able to approach people before they have the time to mingle with others, and you’re also able to make the most out of your time at such events. Who knows, you might come across an executive recruiter in NY before someone else does.

Continue Your Interactions

Remember, initial contact is only the first step in your networking journey. Whether it’s a success or a failure depends on whether you follow up or not. There are many ways to follow up, such as:

• Thanking them
• Sending something relevant to your interaction to them
• Asking further questions, etc.

Networking Skills for Job Search

All in all, networking is incredibly important to land the right job. The bigger your professional networking, the more likely you are to find networks in the industry. So, don’t underestimate the power of building meaningful relationships with people in your professional circle. When it’s time to search for a job, the same connections will help you with referrals and valuable information about job leads.

While networking is important for any kind of job search, it’s much more valuable for landing an executive’s role in a company. Many C-level recruiting companies in New York help organizations hire executives, but not many can help them hire the best executives. This is where recruitment consultant ny 40-year-long journey in the industry speaks for itself.

We understand how crucial it is for companies to hire not only the best but also high-performing executives. Through our networking endeavors, we have helped countless companies get the best hires. Our time-tested approach can also help you hire the right senior leadership. For more details, contact New York Executive Headhunters NY today.