Effective Networking Techniques When Searching For a New Job
Whether you are just beginning your career or already hold many positions, adapting to a new job requires time and effort. Even if you have landed your dream career, it can be hard to adjust to the pace of your new employer and the way of doing business at that company. You might even worry that you simply do not mesh well with those who work there. If you find yourself in this situation, take heart; this article will help guide you through the process of transitioning to a new job.
The first thing to do when preparing for a new job is to talk to your colleagues about what kind of lifestyle changes you are planning to make as part of your new role. If you are the kind of person who loves working on your feet, try to join a coworking group where you can interact with others and share ideas. In this way, you will develop your interpersonal skills, while strengthening your ability to network. If you have trouble getting together with colleagues without a lot of hassle, consider taking a course on how to be a team player. Taking this class will prepare you for a more dynamic and collaborative workplace.
During your first day on the job, spend some time chatting with fellow employees in the office. You can also join groups on LinkedIn or Facebook to discuss local happenings, ask questions, and network with others who are in your position of employment. This will give you a sense of the pulse of the company as a whole, and allow you to learn more about their culture. At first glance, these kinds of activities seem banal, but the amount of time you spend networking will go a long way in creating positive social media experiences for yourself and your new position. This time away from work will also help you get comfortable in your new position, allowing you to get to know your coworkers better and perform your job duties with greater efficiency.
On your first day, also check the local news for any stories or scoops regarding the new job role or industry you are joining. Reading about current events may seem silly, but it’s actually a great way to get an idea of what’s going on in your town or city. Schade says that social media should be treated like a currency. “A currency is whatever you can exchange for another currency. In this case, it’s networking opportunities.”
When you are looking for a company to hire you for your new job or position, ask questions about the culture at the organization. It is a good idea to talk to people on the ground and see how they are getting along in the organization, since your presence there may not last long-term. It is important to make yourself compatible with your co-workers, since a good fit is important when it comes to a smooth transition into and out of your new role.
Do not be afraid to network. Networking is a vital part of any career move, especially during a job search. Many potential employers will use online job searches to filter out applicants. If you know anyone within the company, be sure to casually drop by for a chat. This doesn’t have to happen immediately, but be sure to say hello and ask if they know of anyone who could make a good fit for your open position.