Connecting for Success: How Networking Paves the Way to Your Dream Job
by Pauline Fournier
Why is networking a critical component of job-seeking? For the same reason that hiring managers and recruiters know they need to rely on it to fill open roles: On average, about 75% of jobs are filled through networking. Even when presented with that impressive statistic, many people shy away from networking when they are searching for their next role.
I’m often told that it is hard to ask for help or that networking is not a skill that everyone has. Both statements are true. And it is also true that having conversations is critical to the hiring process. Without conversations, hiring won’t occur. That’s all networking is: a conversation. So, if you are struggling to get started with ‘networking,’ just try to think about having more conversations.
As a career consultant, I have a lot of anecdotes about how connections have helped job seekers land roles more quickly. I’ve heard hundreds of stories about connections people have met through a dry cleaner, a place of worship, on airplanes, and even at parties. I’ve heard stories about colleagues or managers from 20 or more years ago who have helped candidates land jobs. Have more conversations!
Why companies hire referred candidates:
Employee referrals can streamline the hiring process. Since referred candidates often undergo a shorter screening process, it can result in a quicker turnaround time for filling open positions. It may reduce the need for extensive external recruitment efforts, such as advertising job openings on various platforms or using external recruiting agencies, making the process more cost-effective.
As companies look to expand or fill openings, they want to hire someone who is not only good at what they do but is also a good cultural fit for the organization. A candidate who has networked within the company may better understand its culture, values, and work environment. Familiarity with existing team members can foster a sense of belonging and collaboration making the integration more seamless.
Studies have suggested that employee referrals tend to have higher retention rates than candidates hired through other channels. The existing relationship and familiarity with the company culture may contribute to longer-term commitment.
Why candidates need to have the conversations:
- People want to help. They want to know what they can do for you. Why deny others the pleasure of helping you?
- I have worked with three candidates recently who were asked to fill out applications after they had already been offered jobs – for formality. All three of them received an automatic reply from an ATS suggesting they were not qualified for the role. They would not have been considered if they had not networked their way into the company.
- Networking can give a candidate access to the hidden job market. Many opportunities are not publicly advertised, and some advertised opportunities are not available. Sometimes, a company has a candidate in mind and advertises the role because an internal policy dictates they must. Be the known candidate before a job is posted.
- By networking with a current employee, you can learn information that can help you tailor your approach and applications to align with the preferences and expectations of potential hiring managers.
- Candidates referred by employees have advocates who can vouch for their skills, work ethic, and suitability for the role. As a former hiring manager, I was likely to pay close attention to referred candidates. They were coming in from trusted sources.
- Companies often offer referral bonuses to their employees. Ask your connections if there is a referral program to incentivize them to help you connect with the right individuals in a company.
- Networking is not just about finding a job; it’s about building long-term relationships. These connections can benefit your career, leading to additional opportunities, collaborations, and advancements. Continual networking helps build your brand, knowledge, and confidence.
One final point: Remember that the difference between not working and networking is only one letter!
