The 6 Networking Techniques That You Should Be Using to Reach New Career Opportunities

Did you know that according to some estimates 80% of jobs are being found via business networking (the often so-called ‘hidden job market’) and not necessarily via official job ads? This shows one more time that it’s worthwhile to invest time in networking with others. The question is: which business networking techniques are the most effective and useful ones in order to reach new career opportunities? Let’s have a closer look on how you can tackle this challenge the smart way.

# 1 — Attend industry-specific fairs and conferences.

With all the technology that we have at our disposal nowadays there is still room for face-to-face interaction, and that’s good so! Personal conversations do still matter and can never replace conversations via phone or email. When attending fairs, set yourself a goal to meet a certain amount of people/companies during the event. Exchange business cards, engage in enriching conversations by talking and listening attentively to others. Last, but not least, DO FOLLOW UP! That’s were most networking opportunities fail!

# 2 — Networking via social media platforms.

Make sure you have a good online presence and you are active on various social media networks. There is nothing more frustrating than noticing a person’s complete online invisibility. When people google you, they most probably see your LinkedIn profile at the top of their Google search. Aim for a 100% completeness of your profile. Twitter is another great tool. Build up your network, set up groups, discuss with other like-minded people, ask questions, exchange ideas, comment/share and like other people’s content.

# 3 — Show your genuine interest in people.

Theodore Roosevelt’s quote says it all ‘Nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care’. Thus, be genuinely interested in other people. But be careful that you don’t cross the line, there is a difference between being genuinely interested and being highly nosy. Knowing about other people’s interests, their background, their fears and dreams can always help you to connect with others. Finding a common ground is always a great idea to get started in business networking. Often people with completely different backgrounds might turn out to be very useful for you in the future. Thus, never disregard any of your contacts. In life, you never know where it might lead.

# 4 — Join industry-specific online forums.

This is where you will find your target group. Use this networking technique to show your expertise, to answer people’s questions, to get noticed by companies that you would love to work for.

# 5 — Write a great blog and spread the word about it.

A blog can be a crucial tool to accelerate your career success. Follow the companies in your industry and engage with them online as often as possible. You will get noticed and when it’s ‘hiring time’, you might be the first person to come to their mind. Bingo!

# 6 — First always give (without any expectations).

Many smart networkers follow this concept (paying it forward) by providing advice, recommendations, support and help to others first, without asking for anything in return. Once they also need some help later on, they know exactly who they can ask in order to get support that matters.

Regardless of what networking techniques you choose, try to make the best use of any situation by: connecting, learning, sharing, observing, answering, questioning, discussing and engaging with others. No matter what day or what time it is, in what place you are, or in what situation you are in, keep networking! Extend your network because this will truly enrich your life and improve your career in the long term. Don’t wait any longer and get started today, go out there, build relationships with people and companies that you would love to have in your network!

(Original source of my article: https://www.talentese.com/6-business-networking-techniques/)