Gerald Lombardo
January 30, 2023
4 min read
Over 80% of jobs come from business networking, and many of these are not officially posted or published anywhere online. Exploring the so-called “hidden job market” is critical for job seekers, and the only way to do so is by networking.
But what if you’ve never networked before or you don't know where to start? Don’t worry, Popl is here to help.
Here’s what job seekers need to know about networking.
The hidden job market refers to job openings that are not publicly advertised and are instead filled through networking, personal contacts, and employee referrals.
It's difficult to determine the exact number of jobs in the hidden job market as they are not publicly advertised. However, it's estimated that millions of jobs are found through the hidden job market every year.
If you’re a job seeker the first thing you need to do is take simple steps forward. Don’t allow yourself to get buried researching resume templates, and putting together lists of where you will EVENTUALLY apply. Take small, tangible steps and make sure that you’re submitting at least a few applications per day - even just one is a positive direction.
The same goes for networking. Start small. This can mean joining an online networking group on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter or, better yet, going to a nearby in-person event. Either way, business networking is something that exists in thedoing, so start as small as you need to and accept that you won’t be an elite networker out-of-the-gate, that’s fine, you’ll get better with time.
Using a digital business card is the epitome of hybrid networking because it allows you to connect with people you meet in person with a simple tap of your phone or via scanning your personalized QR code. Then your digital business card makes it easy to follow up online.
Using a digital business card while you’re at networking events, conferences, or simply while you’re chatting with someone in line at a coffee shop is the best possible way to turn brief encounters into full-blown job offers.
A well designed, professional LinkedIn profile is important for job seekers because:
Note that you can also add your LinkedIn profile to your Popl digital business card so when you connect with someone you’re sharing all of your social and professional profiles as well as your number, email, and whatever else you include in your customizable digital business card profile.
Genuine relationships are key for business networking because:
If you’re looking for a job, give in-person networking a try. There are plenty of options from giant events to small gatherings at your local chamber of commerce. Do whatever feels right to you, as long as you give it a try.
If you are uncomfortable with in-person networking or have social anxiety, here are some tips to help:Business networking when you have social anxiety.
Giving back is important when networking because it helps build strong and meaningful relationships based on mutual support and genuine interest in others.
Job seekers are sometimes surprised at the incredible opportunities that come about as a result of getting involved in charities and local volunteer organizations. Why? Because by helping others and giving back, individuals can strengthen their professional relationships and build a supportive network that can benefit them in their career.
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