What are some of the best networking strategies for career changers or pivots?
If you are thinking of changing careers or pivoting to a new field, you might be wondering how to network effectively and make valuable connections. Networking is a crucial skill for any job seeker, but especially for those who want to explore new opportunities and demonstrate their transferable skills. In this article, you will learn some of the best networking strategies for career changers or pivots, such as:
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Haitham AlsalmanFounder | Executive Job Search Strategist | 📨 Message me to help you unlock hidden job market opportunities in the UAE…
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Kate WadeI Write Scroll-Stopping Résumés & CVs
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Manja MolanHuman Resources Professional | Innovative Recruitment Strategist | Connecting Talent With Opportunities
Before you start reaching out to people, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and who you want to talk to. Think about your career goals, your ideal role, and the industry or sector you want to enter. Then, research the key players, influencers, and organizations in that field. Make a list of potential contacts, such as alumni, mentors, former colleagues, friends, or online groups, who can offer you insights, referrals, or support.
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Haitham Alsalman
Founder | Executive Job Search Strategist | 📨 Message me to help you unlock hidden job market opportunities in the UAE and GCC | Executive Networking & Personal Branding | Speaker 📢 Career and Business
One of the best strategies to plan out your networking journey as an executive job seeker is based on the following funnel: Industry > Company > People > Opportunity 1. You need to have a clear idea of which industry you have a competitive advantage in, look at your previous experience. 2. Identify companies that you are interested in, look at your last company's competitors, partners, and even B2B clients. 3. This makes things much easier to find the right people to connect with, focus on Peers and cross-functional employees, then internal recruiters and prospective Hiring managers (ppl you are expected to report to). This is a simple formula to kick-start your networking journey
Your online presence and personal brand are essential tools for networking and showcasing your skills and value. Make sure your LinkedIn profile, resume, portfolio, and social media accounts reflect your current goals and achievements. Highlight your transferable skills, relevant projects, and professional development activities. Use keywords and phrases that match your target industry and role. Join and participate in online communities, forums, and groups related to your field of interest.
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Haitham Alsalman
Founder | Executive Job Search Strategist | 📨 Message me to help you unlock hidden job market opportunities in the UAE and GCC | Executive Networking & Personal Branding | Speaker 📢 Career and Business
Companies invest billions to present their brand and what value it adds to their target audience. You don't have to spend that much, but only spend your time building a presence for your target audience. SHow them what value you could add to them by creating the right content. You don't have to be an avid content creator, just talk about what you are an expert in. People these days spend more time online than anywhere, Linkedin is the best Social Media platform to help you as an expert.
One of the most effective ways to network as a career changer or pivot is to conduct informational interviews with people who work in your desired field or role. Informational interviews are informal conversations where you can ask questions, learn from their experiences, and get advice. You can also attend events, such as webinars, workshops, conferences, or meetups, where you can meet and interact with other professionals and experts in your field. Be prepared, curious, and respectful when you network with others.
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Kate Wade
I Write Scroll-Stopping Résumés & CVs
I like to volunteer for things adjacent to the role I am looking to pivot into. I have done this twice to get into careers I wanted. A great resource to use your expertise as a volunteer: catchafire. Check it out!
Networking is not a one-time activity, but a long-term process of building and nurturing relationships. You need to follow up with your contacts, express your gratitude, and keep them updated on your progress. You also need to offer value and help to them, such as sharing relevant information, resources, or opportunities. You can use tools like email, social media, or online platforms to stay in touch and maintain communication. Remember to be authentic, genuine, and respectful when you network.
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Manja Molan
Human Resources Professional | Innovative Recruitment Strategist | Connecting Talent With Opportunities
Building strong relationships doesn't require constant emailing or texting. It's about finding meaningful ways to connect. If you come across something that reminds you of someone, like an interesting article, send it their way! Authentic communication is just as important as consistent communication when it comes to nurturing relationships.
Networking can also help you improve your skills, knowledge, and performance as a career changer or pivot. You can seek feedback and guidance from your contacts, such as mentors, coaches, peers, or experts, who can help you identify your strengths, weaknesses, and areas of improvement. You can also ask for recommendations, referrals, or introductions to other contacts or opportunities that can benefit your career. Be open-minded, humble, and willing to learn from others.
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Kate Wade
I Write Scroll-Stopping Résumés & CVs
People LOVE to share their advice and wisdom. Don't be afraid to ask for it. You will get a lot of good ideas and inspiration! Asking for advice is a gift in itself, but, I also frequently give by letting the person know that if they see someone in my LinkedIn network that they'd like to meet, I would be happy to make an introduction.
Finally, networking as a career changer or pivot requires flexibility and adaptability. You need to be ready to face challenges, uncertainties, and changes in your career journey. You also need to be open to new ideas, perspectives, and opportunities that can help you grow and succeed. Networking can help you discover new possibilities, expand your horizons, and achieve your goals. Be proactive, positive, and resilient when you network.
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Haitham Alsalman
Founder | Executive Job Search Strategist | 📨 Message me to help you unlock hidden job market opportunities in the UAE and GCC | Executive Networking & Personal Branding | Speaker 📢 Career and Business
Finding a job is a job by itself and the best are not hired for doing the easiest thing, but doing it in the best way possible. It's not about what you know as much as it's about who you know. If you look at successful people, you might notice how well-connected they are. Would you rather spend time doing the same easy thing that everyone does like applying online only? or being well-connected and getting others to help you get things done due to your strong reputation?
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Haitham Alsalman
Founder | Executive Job Search Strategist | 📨 Message me to help you unlock hidden job market opportunities in the UAE and GCC | Executive Networking & Personal Branding | Speaker 📢 Career and Business
When networking think of what value you can give people before asking for anything. Networking is a genuine practice that connects people to help each other. By applying the reciprocating law, you can do magic to influence people to be at your service whenever in need. Be honest with your endeavors to help them first. This is the secret recipe to building trust beyond anything.
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