December 21, 2020
Sally Stavola, Talent Acquisition Partner
At first, a job search can seem like a daunting task. Updating your resume, scouring the job boards and applying to opportunity after opportunity can be very frustrating. However, if you engage with your network early in your search you will likely see more successful results. Majority of positions filled are filled through networking. After all, it’s not what you know, but who you know, or so the saying goes….
Start With Your Current Relationships
Reach out to friends and family to let them know you are starting your search and what types of jobs might interest you. Be sure to connect with them on LinkedIn so you can see their connections and ask for introductions into their network.
Check in With Your Professional References
Reach out to your prior managers and supervisors to ask if they would be a professional reference. Not only will they be able to speak on your behalf, but it is also likely they will have an idea of who is hiring in a space that closely aligns with your background. Take a minute to let them know you are on the job market and what you are looking for in a new role. Be sure to ask if they know of any openings where they would be able to make an introduction.
Contact Your BLEND360 Talent Acquisition Partner
Our network is your network! When you use a talent professional as a valued partner to support your search, you immediately have direct access to hundreds of hiring managers and job opportunities with key insights to hiring trends.
Reconnect With Old Colleagues
Prior colleagues can be one of your strongest allies in your job search. Many times, your prior colleagues have made careers changes and are now with new organizations. They can provide extensive insight about that organization and hiring needs, make appropriate introductions and create instant interest in your resume.
Visit LinkedIn Company Pages in the Industry You Want
Who do you know that is currently working in those organizations?
If you find a connection, ask them to review your resume and/or ask them to make an introduction to someone in a hiring capacity. Making connections within organizations which you have interest is critical to your search. Your resume will get more visibility being shared internally than through the application process on the company webpage.
Get in Touch With Your Alumni Groups
Chances are, your alumni groups will be full of like-minded professionals, sharing similar interests and skills. Be sure to connect with these groups on LinkedIn and other social media pages. LinkedIn is an outstanding tool which allows these groups to produce extensive opportunities from job postings, discussion boards and networking events. Be active in these groups to showcase your skills and expertise.
Update Your LinkedIn Profile
Take a minute to review How to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile, written by BLEND360’s Director of Talent Solutions, Shak Saunders. Building connections starts with people seeing all you have to offer, and according to LinkedIn, profiles that are 100% complete are 40x more likely to receive an opportunity through their network.
Networking is one of the most important strategies in a successful job search. Your skills will get you started, but the connections you make and maintain can help ensure a long and thriving career.
