Networking With Influential People

Career networking is essential during the job search. Exposing yourself to influential people provides you with inspiration and hopefully, job leads. However, if you are an introvert, the process of networking is often excruciating. Learn how to get creative and meet people who can aid in your career search and success with these networking ideas.

1. Volunteer in the Community

Build your network by offering your time and talents to organizations in your community. Contact local nonprofits, and share your skills for free. For example, if you are seeking a position in the accounting field, offer to do taxes at a local shelter or community center. Attend events that allow you to meet influential people in the industry, and offer to assist in their efforts. Your contributions help build your reputation and allow you to show off your unique skill set.

2. Execute a Project-Based Opportunity

Engage in career networking by launching projects that assist others in your industry to enhance your networking and job opportunities. For example, you can launch a blog or website that offers advice and suggestions to novices working within your industry. Enlist experts in your field to contribute to your project to increase your chances of making solid connections that could lead to employment opportunities. Create an email template that contains information about your project, and send to professionals in your field to further promote your efforts to help your project gain momentum as you build your brand.

3. Connect With Former Associates

Market your skills and experience through career networking while reconnecting with people you have worked with in the past. Host an event or small gathering, and invite people who could help advance your career. Networking is essential to your job search, and reconnecting with former associates could provide you with mentors who can inspire and motivate you when the search process gets challenging. Ask for advice from people you trust, and let them know you are seeking employment to further your efforts.

4. Host Informational Workshops

Establish yourself as an expert in the field by hosting informational workshops to help others gain more knowledge. For example, if you are seeking a position as a consultant, offer your services and knowledge for free at a community event. These efforts not only help build your brand but can also assist with career networking. Immerse yourself in the community to make a name for yourself and hopefully, gather job leads. Instead of fearing the process of networking, face your fears through action.

While it is not easy to market your skills in an environment that is new, your efforts with career networking can significantly improve your job opportunities and leads. Expose yourself to influential people by lending your efforts to organizations and people within your industry. Let them know what you have to offer to significantly boost your job search efforts.

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