By Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter
You know networking is the primary way to meet more people. Here are a few ways to expand your reach.
Preparing Your References to Be Checked
Networking is the primary way people find work. In fact, recent statistics show that 85% of people find positions through networking. However, in order to successfully network, you need to meet more people than you currently know. This can be challenging, especially if you don’t want to impose on others. So, how can you meet more people and expand your network? Let’s explore some strategies.
Create an Easy-to-Remember Email Address
One of the first things you need to do is create an email address that is easy to remember. This will make it simple for people to reach out to you and connect. Consider using an email address that starts with your name, followed by a popular domain such as Gmail or Yahoo. Alternatively, you can use a first name.last name format. Whichever format you choose, make sure this email address is solely dedicated to your job search. This way, you can keep all your job-related communications separate from your personal emails.
Develop a Personal Tagline
A personal tagline is a short phrase that represents who you are professionally. It should put you in a positive light and make people think of you when they hear your name. Your tagline should align with your expertise and be reflected in everything you do workwise. Crafting an effective tagline takes time and practice. Start by creating an elevator pitch that describes who you are and what your expertise is in about 20 seconds. Refine it over time based on how people respond to it.
Build a Strong Web Profile
A well-crafted web profile, especially on platforms like LinkedIn, can greatly impress potential connections. Make sure your profile is filled with recommendations, accomplishments, and successes. Utilize the headline area under your name to position your elevator pitch. Additionally, take advantage of LinkedIn’s feature that allows you to create a vanity URL for your profile. This personalized URL can be used in your email signature, resume, and business cards.
Ask for Referrals
When networking, it’s important to ask for referrals. If you meet someone who may have job leads at other companies, don’t hesitate to ask them about open positions at their firm. To facilitate this process, always carry extra business cards with you. If someone shows interest in referring you, provide them with a few extra cards to pass along to potential connections.
Start Blogging About Your Profession
Blogging is a great way to expand your network while showcasing your expertise and helping others. By sharing valuable insights and knowledge, you can attract job opportunities and connect with like-minded professionals. Consider joining a job search support club, alumni associations, veteran groups, or professional organizations. Engaging with these communities can provide you with valuable networking opportunities and potential job leads.
Volunteer with Organizations
Volunteering with organizations that align with your interests can be an excellent way to expand your network. Not only will you be contributing to a cause you care about, but you’ll also have the opportunity to meet new people and make valuable connections. Look for opportunities within nonprofit organizations, religious institutions, NGOs, or any group that interests you. Volunteering can serve as a gateway to introductions and potential job opportunities.
Reach Out to Friends and Family
Your existing network of friends, family, former colleagues, and even people you interact with regularly, such as Uber drivers or baristas, can be valuable resources for expanding your network. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them and let them know you’re looking for new opportunities. Offer incentives for referrals, such as a Starbucks gift card, to encourage them to help you connect with potential job leads.
Stay in Contact with Regular Updates
Once you’ve mentioned to someone that you’re looking for new opportunities, it’s important to stay on their radar. Regularly send updates to your contacts, even if it’s just a gentle nudge or a simple offer to help them. By maintaining regular communication, you ensure that you won’t be forgotten and increase your chances of receiving valuable job leads.
Conclusion
Expanding your network and meeting new people is crucial for finding work and advancing in your career. By following these strategies, such as creating an easy-to-remember email address, developing a personal tagline, building a strong web profile, asking for referrals, blogging about your profession, volunteering, reaching out to friends and family, and staying in contact with regular updates, you’ll be on your way to meeting more people and expanding your network. Remember, networking takes time and effort, but the benefits can be invaluable in your job search journey.
ABOUT JEFF ALTMAN, THE BIG GAME HUNTER
People hire Jeff Altman, The Big Game Hunter to provide No BS job search coaching and career advice globally because he makes job search and succeeding in your career easier.
You will find great info and job search coaching to help with your job search at JobSearch.Community
Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/TheBigGameHunter
Schedule a discovery call to speak with me about one-on-one or group coaching during your job search at www.TheBigGameHunter.us.
10 AI Power Tools to Land Your Next Job
He is the host of “No BS Job Search Advice Radio,” the #1 podcast in iTunes for job search with over 2900 episodes over 13+ years.
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