The Power of Networking – It Really Is WHO You Know
Did you know that it’s been statistically proven that 65-70% of jobs are acquired through someone you know? This means that there are so many unadvertised jobs, just waiting for you.
Now I know you’re not an extrovert – most people hate networking events and the like, but I’m here to tell you that I am not suggesting you attend networking events where you have to walk up to complete strangers and introduce yourself. This is frankly terrifying for most people!
There are SO many other ways to network and so here are some stories I’d like to share with you of people who landed jobs from the most precarious places, ones you wouldn’t expect!
Magda met a gentleman on the train, and struck up a chat about how they both love dogs and that they discovered they have similar careers in that they both are Graphic Designers. It wasn’t long before the man told Magda he´s always looking for talented illustrators. So, in a rush he told her about his website and that she should get in contact via email. And That´s what she did – the same day – because you need to take action within 24 hours of meeting them, while you’re fresh in their memory. This also tells them you were excited to meet them. She now works for him as a freelance artist.
Or Sam, who was very down and out about his stalled gaming career. He received a LinkedIn message from a woman who was searching for a unique skillset for her start-up. She was looking for someone who had a passion for both gaming and primary education, which matched Sam’s LinkedIn profile. He is now doing paid work for her, AND she referred him to another business to write online learning courses for primary school students.
Or Carly who was studying nursing and nannying for a family where the mum was a doctor at a nearby hospital. The mum asked Carly if she was interested in part-time work at her employer/hospital. Carly ended up working at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse Hospital for 3 years as an Assistant In Nursing. This experience put her ahead of the other nursing graduates and she received 2 full-time job offers once she graduated.
Or Tanya, who has a passion for Wellbeing and Meditation, and often worked at local fairs. A colleague told her about a job that was coming up for a new organisation that were forming a professional network of natural health care providers and she was the glue they needed for the organisation. She was in her late 50s so was a bit nervous, but she interviewed and nailed it. Had it not been for this colleague, she would never have known about the opportunity or got the job.
Or me, who met someone at a wedding and struck up a conversation about divorce with children – now I’ve been elected to the Board of Parents Beyond Breakup. This is a big deal for me – because I know I am helping to save lives and prevent suicide.
Here are some other ideas of where you can network:
The Barber or Hair Salon – you’d be surprised how big their network is!
Kids sporting events – don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with other attendees/parents.
Volunteering – You’re mixing with good people, and if they like you they will want to help you.
LinkedIn – It’s okay to approach strangers, but spend time getting to know their ‘online presence’ and commenting on it in your messages, to show them you’re not spamming.
Your neighbours – Through sidewalk chat, a neighbour connected his daughter with someone who was desperately looking for a graphic designer for an urgent project.
Weddings or Friends’ parties – Once you tell them you’re available for work, they will brainstorm internally on potential ways they can help you.
Sports clubs – Even if it’s hiking, footy, or netball, someone always knows someone else that might help you.
Eco shops or creative shops or places that invoke passionate subgroups.
Internships – Always treat these as a job interview! You’d be surprised how many find employment from these opportunities.
If you feel awkward making small talk, make a list on your phone of conversation starters:
Ask them about their family, and make notes on your phone or laptop.
Ask what they love to do in their spare time?
If they have an accent, ask what do they like most about living in Australia?
Do they have any travel plans coming up?
Is everyone safe in your family with Covid?
Also if you REALLY want to make a good impression:
Rehearse your elevator speech – tell them something about you: what you love doing, what type of work you’re looking for. “I’ve recently left my company because I am looking for work that is more meaningful and that can use my data science background.”
Follow up with new contacts right away, within 1 day by sending a text, voicemail or LinkedIn message saying it was great to meet them.
Don’t forget to thank the person who introduced you and tell them if you got a response.
SMILE – Remember the “sweet or sour game” the kids played growing up? A smile goes a long way!