Networking: Still the Best Way to Find Your Next Job

I am asked all the time by candidates , “What is the Best Method for Me to Find My Next Job?” I am a big believer that candidates need to “cast a wide net”. By casting a wide net, I mean use all available resources such as:

• Reviewing job postings on sites like Indeed, SimplyHired, and LinkedIn
• Reviewing job postings on various company career sites
• Posting your resume on jobs boards such as Monster, CareerBuilder, Ladders
• Contacting various recruiters; especially ones that specialize in your area of expertise

However, the number one best method for someone to find their next job is through networking. Networking should include friends and former colleagues to other connections that you may get from these friends and colleagues. LinkedIn is a great tool to build and grow your network as well as stay in touch.

Networking also greatly improves your odds of finding a new position. For example, once a company advertises an opening, either on their career site or a job board, they are generally swamped with resumes. Under these conditions, it is usually very hard for candidates to stand out.

By networking with a trusted friend or colleague, you may be brought into a search that has just started, or is not advertised, or is a confidential search. The odds of you being considered for the role have now greatly increased because of the small pool of candidates. In addition, since you would be referred by a trusted source to the hiring entity, this is also huge to make you stand out.

Networking is not just something that you do when you begin your job search. Networking should be a constant endeavor. Many times, candidates are brought great opportunities when they are NOT active job seekers It is valuable to always stay connected with friends, former colleagues, and recruiters.

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