Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Build professional network to help land new job
The holiday season is upon us, and the end of the year is getting closer. A new year provides a perfect opportunity to turn over a new leaf, and many people commit to doing so by making New Year’s resolutions.
While there are no rules governing resolutions, certain resolutions tend to top the list of the most common ones year after year. Setting health and fitness goals is very common, but so are resolutions to switch careers. In fact, a 2017 survey from YouGov found that 14 percent of respondents were committed to finding a new job in 2018.
Building a strong professional network can help people find a fulfilling job when they are looking to advance their careers. The following tips can help professionals establish such a network.
Keep in mind that networking is a two-way street.
Networking can be an effective way to find a new job, and it’s also a great way to help other people do the same. While you’re looking for a new job, if you come across opportunities that aren’t a good fit for you but might be for others in your network, don’t hesitate to contact them. Your efforts will be appreciated, and those you help might do the same for you if they come across job openings that suit your background.
Build your online profile.
Make your social and professional networking websites work for you. Create profiles on professional sites that are related to your career goals, and start making connections that can help you advance your career. Also, make sure your social-networking profiles and posts reflect a flattering picture of you, both as an individual and a professional. Most hiring managers check applicants’ social-media profiles, and while that candid shot from last weekend’s party might be hilarious, it could also create a negative impression. Most social-networking sites allow users to control who can see their posts — this can be a very valuable tool.
Update your resume.
Update your resume as often as you deem necessary. Colleagues you’ve worked with in the past who are within your online network may periodically view your profile, and an updated resume is a great way to keep them abreast of how your career is going. If they can see what you’ve accomplished since you last worked with them, they might be more inclined to reconnect or recommend you for a job opening.
Stay in touch.
Professional networks are most effective for professionals who keep in touch with their colleagues and acquaintances. Follow up with colleagues you’ve worked with in the past to see if there’s anything you can do for them or to check in on how a project you discussed with them is going. Staying in touch can shed light on job opportunities or open other doors that might facilitate your job search.