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How to Find Your Next Job by Networking

 

Have you ever wondered how that friend of yours that really wasn’t qualified for a job received a better paying job with more holidays than you? You could give them the benefit of the doubt that they interviewed well, but in all likelihood, this probably was due to their networking skills.

 

Networking is one of those lost arts that social media has, more or less, watered down. In a world where people value followers on Instagram more than actual job performance, it can be hard to network based on your resume.

 

In the modern work environment, networking is more important than ever. Consider these tips to find your next job through networking.

 

Avoid Being Shy

 

This is the first and most obvious step to landing your next job by networking. To be honest, it’s rare to see someone in a very high position of power when they are shy or timid.

 

If you’re looking to take your job to the next level, it’s important to look at complete measures of success and understand that, in most cases, one simply cannot be shy.

 

You’ll need to exit your comfort zone and take on tasks that might not be geared to your strengths. Only by stepping out of your comfort zone will you begin to see that networking really isn’t that difficult.

 

Update Your Social Media Profiles

 

In a modern world, very few people use word of mouth anymore. Virtually all communicating is done online. For this reason, making a professional and striking online presence is essential.

 

This means creating profiles on social media – not to boast about the big fish you caught last week, but to show your success and hardships (people value real profiles).

 

Think of the social media game as an opportunity to show potential employers who you are and what you do. After all, the hiring staff and HR reps don’t only look at LinkedIn!

 

Friends of Friends

 

For some companies, keeping a tight-knit idea of hiring is important. For that reason, friends of friends can be an important step in networking for your next job.

 

This doesn’t mean that you must start sending out friend requests to every random mutual friend. However, the next time someone asks you to come to a virtual happy hour, don’t stay home isolated and watch Netflix. Go enjoy a glass of wine with some like-minded individuals.

 

Who knows? A friend of a friend might become your best friend and a colleague at the job of your dreams!

 

Start networking today! You’ll likely make some pretty amazing connections!

 

About the Author: Ann Jones is a life and career coach with 25+ years of experience helping professionals create fulfillment. Learn more about Ann's background.

 

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Related Reading: LinkedIn Network Value: Building Meaningful Professional Connections - Discover how to leverage your existing network and build authentic professional relationships that lead to career opportunities.

 

Also consider reading: A Job Hunter's Guide to Dealing with a Slow Interview Process - Learn strategies for staying motivated and productive during lengthy hiring processes.