Did you know that an estimated 80% of jobs aren’t posted for the public to see? That’s right, you won’t find them on Indeed, LinkedIn, or in the newspaper (for anyone who still looks there). 🗞️ You’ll hear them through the grapevine, like Marvin Gaye (or Gladys Knight and the Pips). 🍇
To reel in these word-of-mouth paycheck providers, you’ll need to cast a wide network net. 🥅 Not exactly your specialty? Good thing we’ve rounded up these tips. 👇
Here’s Five Fast Facts on how to network like a pro:
- 🗣️ Up Close and Personal - When networking is all about filling up your Rolodex, it can feel like a major chore. To make it more fun and interesting, get personal. You don’t have to ask people their thoughts on the universe, but find out what they care about and make it a point to remember. Scratching the surface in an interaction paves the way for a deeper relationship.
- 💫 Shine Online - Polishing up the ol’ LinkedIn profile? Include enough info so people get to know you. Highlight your career accomplishments and your goals and plans for the future. Comment on interesting posts and message new connections, but don’t overdo it. Too much activity can make you look desperate or fake.
- 🧪 Nerve Tonic - Got the pre-networking event jitters? Fight off those scaries by planning ahead. Spend time choosing discussion topics so they’re ready to go when you start a convo. If you can, look up attendees ahead of time so you know exactly who to connect with.
- 🍗 On the Fly - If formal events aren’t your speed, remember networking happens everywhere! You never know who you could meet at the gym, the local fried chicken joint, or the car wash. Don’t be afraid to turn a little small talk into a lasting connection.
- 🤝 Less Is More - Any introverts in the house? If you’re not a big talker, ask plenty of thoughtful questions to get the other person gabbing. Take note of what you learn and use it to reconnect in the future (birthdays, milestones, fun trips). Don’t feel like you need to work an entire room. Making even just one quality connection is better than a handful of random ones.
🔥Bottom line: If you’re thinking of finding a new gig, chances are you’re on the hunt for more money. You might also be searching for more time off and sweeter benefits. But what if taking a pay cut could lead you to a better quality of life? Head to this article to read why some people step back to get more.
Got a top networking tip you’d like to share?
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