The holiday season can be the perfect time to conduct your job search. Why? Because there are many opportunities for networking—even in the current environment. With holiday gatherings, either in person or virtually, you have natural opportunities to build your network. Why does this matter? Because research shows that as many as 80% of successful hiring can be attributed to networking.
Here are some tips for successful networking:
- Build your network before you need it. Having a strong network helps build your brand and reputation, increases your visibility, and can provide support.
- Recognize that networking is a two-way street. You should not think about networking just as an opportunity to improve your own situation but also as a way to support others. Do something to build your network each and every day, whether that’s sending an email to someone you haven’t talked to in a while, or identifying someone new you want to meet.
- Find your (potential) network everywhere around you. Sources to grow your network are everywhere from your friends and relatives to business associates such as accountants, attorneys, vendors (be sure to understand your organization’s ethics rules), to alumni associations to community organizations, and everyone in between. Even the people in your holiday card file! Make a list—your network is probably larger than you imagined.
- Seek out opportunities to meet people. You can attend holiday parties, volunteer in your community, participate in networking events, and take part in industry-related conferences, among other things. Follow up with everyone you meet either via LinkedIn or email.
- Ask for help (if you need it) and be specific about exactly what you need. Most people will be happy to help you — but you need to ask. A specific request for assistance (“Does anyone know someone who works in the accounting department at Company X?”) is more likely to be fulfilled than a general request (“I need a new job! Help!”)
- Follow up. If a networking contact gives you advice, a lead, or information, follow up on that information — and then also get back to that person to let them know how it went.
- Don’t forget about networking online. LinkedIn is the professional networking site. Make sure your profile is up to date. As you build your connections, customize your ask by sharing where you met / what you have in common. Comment on posts, and join groups. Post yourself. Work on growing your network to 500 or so.
- Pay it forward. After you land your new job, be sure to thank your network — especially contacts that have specifically helped you with your job search. At a minimum, send a personal note to everyone who assisted you in your search. And don’t forget to spread the word that you’ve accepted a new opportunity. Don’t neglect your network just because you found a new job. One of the most important parts of maintaining your network is providing assistance when you are asked. Be responsive to requests for help from folks in your network when you are asked.
