TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOUR NETWORK!
Did you know that 55% of recruitments today are performed via relationship networks? These figures from the Ministry of Labor demonstrate the impact of networking on a professional career, namely that it can also intervene in many other areas. Indeed, although the notion of networking may seem unimportant, it is nevertheless a real strategy, with major challenges. The American Business School of Paris takes stock with you, and reveals everything you need to know about the subject!
“NETWORK”… WHAT DOES IT MEAN?
We hear a lot about networks. But what exactly does it mean? A relationship network represents all the people we meet, whether in the professional or private sphere, in an “in-person” manner or through social media. As a student, do you think you don’t have a network because of your status? Well, think again…
Indeed, several categories fall into what is referred to as “network”, namely:
- Your family and loved ones (friends, neighbors, etc.);
- Your community relationships, like your local storekeeper;
- Your hobbies, such as the sports club where you practice and activity or any other leisure association;
- Your studies, with your teachers, your classmates, former students, but also the people you meet during internships;
- Your social networks, both personal (Facebook, Instagram…) and professional (LinkedIn).
Keep in mind that everyone in your network also knows other people, with a network they can share with you. This person can put you in touch with or allow you to meet someone who can also introduce you to someone, and so on.
WHAT’S THE POINT OF NETWORKING?
Your network will be a tremendous lever for your job search, and in particular to access the so-called “hidden” market. You should know that 7 out of 10 companies do not advertise job offers… Today, more than ever, it is crucial to opt for a “multidisciplinary” job search approach, specifically, to apply in a conventional way using your CV and cover letter in response to an advertisement or spontaneous application, but also by leveraging your network.
Your network will also allow you to exchange and obtain certain information on a company or a position, which will help you to better personalize your job search or your application. You can also share experiences and get valuable advice.
It also allows you to gain visibility, and to know from a reliable source, often in advance, about vacancies within a company. You can also ask your network for a recommendation letter, as it have a great impact on the recruitment process! In fact, recommendations can be a differentiating criterion between two candidates for obvious reasons.
YOUR NETWORK WILL BE YOUR ALLY THROUGHOUT YOUR JOURNEY
Don’t think that your networking should only start when you are getting ready to enter the job market for the first time. It’s important that you start to conceive your network even before finishing your studies. It’s a real action plan that requires time and consistency.
You will have to get fully involved to achieve this goal and succeed in developing a strong relationship network. Do not forget that these relationships will enable you to drive forward your projects whether it is to find potential recruiters, change your career path, start your own business, etc. Unity is strength as the saying goes!
As an endnote, here’s a key figure from a study carried out by Kantar for LinkedIn France: 60% of working people have a professional network and 85% emphasize the importance of having one.
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