You've heard the phrase "I'll keep my eyes and ears open". Those are words used by passive career seekers.
Navigating your career
growth requires specific and deliberate actions. Enact your work for the company but also do something that grows your career on a daily basis.
Strategic Networking is Critical For Finding a Job Today.
In fact, about 70% of the available jobs are not even posted and those that develop the right skills for online networking will
be more productive in finding those hidden gems.
The better you become at building relationships online, the more referrals you'll have. This requires dedicated time to generating
networking conversations and skilled written communication so that meeting requests are accepted. Learning how to navigate conversations will lead to referrals and introductions.
Networking can increase the chance of getting hired by 5X
when referred to a hiring manager.
Why Do Hiring Managers Prefer Referred Candidates?
1) Hiring managers prefer a referred candidate because they most likely have a rapid return on investment. If they have articulated their business impact, they can provide solutions and make a faster
impact.
2) It's less risky for the company to hire a professional that is recommended.
3) Candidates that are referred usually stay longer which also benefits the company.
4) Since advertising, paying recruiters and head-hunters are not expenses, the company does not have the typical cost of finding the right candidate.
This conversational capability is crucial, given that most companies use applicant tracking system software (ATS),
which effectively acts as a shield for job applications. In fact, a Harvard study found that ATS may be too narrow, harming recruitment efforts. And yet, many job seekers still scout job boards
despite studies showing that 85% of open jobs are filled through networking– and in-person meetings result in a 40% close rate
.
