JOB SEARCH Searching for a job is a daunting task. To help you clarify your goals, start by assessing what you’re looking for and why you want to do that type of work. There are several other factors to consider – what size and type of company is appealing? What kind of people, workload, and environment are you aiming for? Once you’ve figured out exactly what you want and why, you’ll have the advantage of being able to articulate why you want a particular position within a company and by extension, are better able to convince recruiters that you are the prime candidate. While the job search is personalised by motivations, there are a few things that students can do to improve their chances at landing a dream job.
NETWORKING Face-to-face networking can be one of the best ways to build professional relationships. Increasingly, organisations are searching for employees that not only have the required skills for the specific job, but can also successfully communicate and engage with internal and external stakeholders. Your journey with networking begins with a mutual understanding about what you can do for your network and what your network can do for you. This means taking the time and effort in developing professional relationships that go beyond initial introductions.
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1. Communicate Effectively
Be concise and enthusiastic about what you do. It’s all about balance so remember to listen and ask open-ended questions to broaden conversation while decreasing formality to make it more conversational.
2. Circulate
Speak with as many people as you can at a networking function – establish the basics and arrange to have a detailed discussion later. This allows you to experience the full purpose of the networking event – getting out there and meeting as many people as you can instead of limiting yourself to only a few impressions. You’re not going to remember everyone’s names so initiate an exchange of details before you move onto the next person.
3. Follow Up
Follow up with the individuals you meet at an event within a couple of days. The channel you use to connect should reflect your view on the importance of the contact to you and your overall goal – sending an email is the most personal, followed by LinkedIn messages for a contact that you’d like to have in your wider network.
