Why you shouldn’t be resistant to network

I have a lot of career coaching clients who tend to be resistant to networking. This is a problem because networking is key to an effective job search. One common reason that I hear from clients is that they feel inauthentic and they feel like they are not being themselves when they are networking. They feel like they have to be someone else to make a good impression. I also hear excuses such as they don’t know what to say, or they don’t want to network outside of friends and family. It usually comes down to what they are most comfortable with.

I understand that sometimes networking pushes you out of your comfort zone, but trust me, it is well worth it! Here are some reasons why it’s important for job seekers to step up and network:

1. 70-80% of jobs are secured through the hidden job market; networking is one big way to tap into that.
2. Some employers are using LinkedIn for 80% of their recruiting efforts.
3. Networking takes the most time but has the highest payoff, and helps with a more focused search instead of papering the job boards. It creates a more targeted search with the companies you want to work for.
4. It will help you with job skills as well. Knowing hot to network is a needed skill outside of job searching.
5. You’ll build your confidence overall as you improve it through your networking efforts.
6. Preparing for networking builds confidence while helping you identify your skills and talents. This can help you with the interview process as well.

Find a way to network authentically. You need to have a good understanding of your personality type and how you best connect with other people. Are you better one-on-one? In small groups rather than large groups? Do you prefer casual situations versus social situations? Things are things to figure out to help you get on track with networking strategy.

If you’d like more help with your networking strategy, contact us today for a complimentary consultation.

Hallie Crawford
Ideal Career Coach

P.S. Are you in the ideal career for you? Find out if you’re in the right career with our Ideal Career Quiz.