Your Network Could Be the First Place for You to Look for Jobs. Here's Why

According to a survey by Workforce Singapore conducted back in 2017, networking is one of the most effective methods of the job search process, with nearly 32% of respondents indicating that they found a job through networking or via word of mouth. In contrast, only 12% reported that they secured a role through a recruiter.

So how is networking able to give you that edge above the rest? Here are 3 reasons.

1. It’s the way to find “hidden jobs”

Here's a figure that may surprise you — a large percentage of about 70-80% of available jobs are actually “hidden”, meaning they are not advertised, reports the president of a US career consultancy. These job openings include positions where staff members are promoted to internally, freelancers/part-timers are offered permanent contracts, or somebody has a contact that fit the role.

2. It reduces the 6 Degrees of Separation from your future employer

LinkedIn's rising popularity among professional jobseekers means that a number of your friends or acquaintances could be on the platform, with their own connections to tap into for your job search needs. Not to mention, it reflects well on your contacts too, if they can help fill a vacant position — some companies have an employee referral programme that allows your contact to receive a monetary reward if they can refer someone to fill a vacant position within the organisation.

There are a number of physical and virtual networking events, career fairs and workshops aimed at professionals from various industries, as well as casual meet-up groups that catering to communities with specific interests.

3. It helps secure recommendations and testimonials

Don’t wait for a job to be advertised before contacting a company you'd like to work for. Because of the relatively small size of our local job market, networking and taking the initiative can more deliver results more easily.

Take the step to reconnect with your ex-colleagues, especially those you've worked with very closely and whom you are comfortable sharing your job search challenges with. Ask them if they could provide a recommendation or testimonial about their experience working with you. This could be either as a recommendation letter, a LinkedIn endorsement or simply asking their permission to be included as a reference in your job applications.

Think about how you can make the whole process convenient for them and what you can give in return. Share about the working relationship you've had, complimenting their work ethics and how you enjoyed working with them. You could then provide a sample of the recommendation letter, specifying your competencies, transferable skills and your experience working together, and ask if they can write something similar or add on to what you have. Lastly, offer to write a recommendation in return so it becomes a mutually helpful process.

If you're looking for more career advice, visit MyCareersFuture for articles to help you on your career journey.

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