Is Networking a Must for Job Seekers?

Networking a Must for Job Seekers?

Professional networking is paramount for advancing one's career. However, many job seekers just shudder at the thought of active networking, associating it with the awkwardness, corny events, and the idea of "selling" themselves.

Despite its negative connotations, networking is actually an important aspect of developing long-term professional relationships and a positive reputation over time. Networking is a socioeconomic business activity that entails interacting with industry professionals who may help you climb up the corporate ladder. A good network is built on trust and support, and it can be the difference between a middling and a spectacular career.

In this blog, we will discuss some of the biggest advantages of networking for job seekers:

1.Increased chances of being hired

The fact is that vital business entrepreneurs like to do business with individuals that they already know. So, if you are already familiar to them, and are in their good graces of your industry, you are likely be one of their first choice. Especially when they may be thinking about a new position in their organization that has not ever been advertised.

After all, why would they go through the long, arduous hiring procedure if they already know you as competent and trustworthy candidate?

So, work to ensure that your contact list includes business owners in your industry, and you will very likely open some doors to new opportunities that you may not even expect.

2. Less competition

We often miss out on fantastic career opportunities simply because many other people—who are equally qualified—are in competition for the same position. However, when you have a personal connection with the employer, they will most likely consider you personally when a position becomes available.

This means that you will not have to queue up with hundreds of other potential employees for job interviews, because you already have an inside connection, and could land that exciting job pretty easily.

3. Being considered for unadvertised jobs

Did you know that as many as 80% of jobs get filled even before they are posted on the online job portals?
So, who gets these jobs? The answer is people who have a personal connection with the employer.

Naturally, if the employer knows you personally, you would be considered for a job position sooner, as those jobs become available. In fact, you may even be the first person they would contact.

Don’t miss out on so many great opportunities because you did not network, and allowing someone else to grab those great jobs. And remember to stay in contact, so that you are fresh in their minds. Otherwise, you may be pushed down on the list of eligible people to be considered because someone else continued to stay connected.

4. Increased industry knowledge

Not only will networking help you land a job, but it can also provide you with a wealth of insider knowledge, and their business culture because you are personally connected with their company and industry leaders, you may also acquire some invaluable free advice and trends that could catapult your career into new heights.

Staying connected will also help you to identify your weaknesses, and where you might want to improve, and can lead you to discover your real potential.

Are You Ready to Land Your Dream Job in Michigan?

CareerMatrix.com can help you advance your career if you are motivated to expand your network and land your dream job. At CareerMatrix.com, you can easily find open vacancies for your industry-related jobs in and around Grand Rapids and the Greater Michigan area. Simply create a free account and set up a job alert to keep you up to date on your dream job, to allow you to be among the first to know when they become available.

What are you waiting for? Visit www.careermatrix.com today to start receiving job opportunities with the most respected and high-paying companies.