Build Your Network Using These Platforms
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Applying to jobs online is only one piece of the puzzle of finding new work.
Networking is key to your job-seeking success. Forbes Career Coach Wasim Hajjiri suggests networking in both your personal and professional circles to up the likelihood of landing a job faster.
Try these approaches to networking during your next job hunt:
While you may have already optimized your LinkedIn profile, it’s important to explore all the ways the platform can be used. This includes asking credible, close contacts to endorse or recommend you directly on the platform, joining LinkedIn Groups specific to your interests and engaging in these groups by exchanging messages and attending events. Hajjiri suggests using LinkedIn to research recruiters and hiring managers within the company (i.e., Comcast, Deloitte) you have applied to. He says, "For each position, connect with at least five to 10 people within that company and keep track of these connections." Remember, givers gain! Lead with authenticity when connecting with new people.
Slack
Slack is another platform that allows you to join interest-specific groups. While you may use Slack for off-the-cuff communication in the office, you can also use it to connect with new professionals in your industry.
Slack has an abundance of professional groups where users share resources, opinions and even job openings. You can even start your own group. Find a list of Slack groups here.
In addition, you can use Slack to build relationships with people across your company as well as partners outside of your organization. It can help you strengthen partner and vendor relationships which an overlooked part of networking.
Meetup
Meetup allows you to come together with like-minded people around informal gatherings. Meetup groups run the gamut from hobby to professional-oriented topics. You can attend meetups around interests like writing, sports and travel.
These informal relationships can ultimately widen your network. "Meeting up" with a fellow hiker could forge a connection with a contact in their network who needs an employee with your skillset.