Networking can multiply your chances of getting a job. When a company receives dozens of applications – or even hundreds – knowing someone inside the company can get your resume to the top of the stack. Plus, seeking advice from a range of people will also increase your chances of hearing about open positions. So, reach out to your contacts – especially the following seven people who can offer some clutch job search help.
If you’re lucky enough to have a mentor in your life, it’s important to hear their input before you start your job search. They’ll be able to tell you where to look for jobs, which jobs to apply for and what to emphasize on your cover letters and resume. A mentor who knows your sector will also be able to help you gage what to expect from the job search process, answering queries about how many months this process might take and how your experience compares to others.
Reach out to any of your former professors that are involved in your industry. See what they might know about available positions in your field or if they know where to look. At the very least, they might be able to point you towards some alumni groups with job postings.
If you completed an internship, you should absolutely come to your former manager to ask for some job search help. Your contributions as an intern have earned you a little guidance in the job search. You may even see if the company you interned for will be posting jobs in the future. You already have your foot in the door.
Even if your parents don’t work in your sector, they definitely will be able to offer advice on the job search over all. Have them read over your resume and cover letters and offer feedback. Also, see if in their network of friends they might know of an open position that would interest you. Your parents love to help you and they are two more professionals that can make your application materials even sharper.
Don’t be shy about reaching out to different family members to see if they might have information on job openings. You can’t possibly know all the people your aunts and uncles hang out with. If you ask them to keep an ear out, you just may hear about a job or opportunity that you would have missed otherwise.
Your pals can be a great source of emotional support during a job search. They know what it’s like to be young and on the hunt for a job. It can be a challenge to learn how to climb the ladder. Your friends also may have their own tips on how to find jobs and how to network. You might event want to attend networking or professional development groups together.
If you have someone in your life who you admire professionally, don’t be afraid to reach out to them. In an email, explain why you’re such a fan and then see if they might offer a little advice on how they got their start. Be respectful of their time, but don’t be afraid to approach them. Everyone enjoys flattery.
Photos:
1. based on Job search, by kate hiscock, CC-by-2.0
2. based on business man and woman handshake in work office, by perzon seo, CC-by-2.0