Become your own brand ambassador!
By Ray Baptiste
Yes it can! I have been networking for as long as I can remember, although initially I probably wasn’t even aware it was called networking, to me it was just starting a conversation. Later on in my work life, I realised networking was an incredibly valuable tool for finding the right job because it gave me access to opportunities and information that otherwise wasn’t readily available through traditional job search methods.
Many job openings are never posted publicly. These positions are filled through referrals or internal recommendations. By networking with professionals in your field, you can tap into this "hidden job market," getting access to opportunities before they’re advertised. Now you will need to spend some time researching associations, groups, and professional bodies that are representative of your chosen area of expertise.
LinkedIn is an excellent source, and you can call me old-fashioned but there are hundreds of relevant groups on FaceBook.
An even more direct way is to network with people who work at the companies you are interested in. This way you will be able to gain some ‘insider information’ which will give you valuable insights into the culture, values, and expectations of the company. This insider knowledge will help you tailor your job search and applications to better align with what the decision-makers are looking for.
Through conversations with people working in various organisations, you can learn which companies have the kind of work culture, values, and growth opportunities that match your career goals and preferences. Networking helps you avoid landing in a job or company that isn't the right fit for you.
This brings me to another essential point and that is the importance of building relationships with the ‘right people’. Networking allows you to build relationships with people who might be in a position to hire or refer you. When you’re already on their radar, they may think of you first when a suitable position opens up.
Even if they’re not the hiring decision-makers, they might know someone who is and can pass along your information. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your personal and networking connections and let them know you are looking for a new opportunity. A personal recommendation goes a long way from someone within a company or industry that you are interested in and carries more weight than a standard application. When you’ve built strong connections through networking, they can vouch for your skills, experience, and character, giving you a significant edge over other candidates.
I have attended many networking events over the years as well as run my own and I love when you can see the synergy in the room doing its magic. Networking is also a great way to stay up-to-date on industry trends, challenges, and emerging opportunities. A conversation with the right person can help you target growing fields or positions that align with where the industry is headed, positioning yourself as a forward-thinking candidate. It can also lead to mentorship opportunities, where experienced professionals guide you in your career path.
They can provide advice on the best steps to take, and the skills to develop, and even connect you with others in their network, further expanding your opportunities.
I once met a really inspiring business owner who shared with me that they always treat networking meetings as ‘informational interviews’. This way they were able to learn more about whether a person they may be talking to had a particular skill/career path, giving them insight into their experience and career ambitions, to see if they aligned with the company values.
In my experience, you need to treat yourself as your own personal brand. As you network and engage with others in your industry, becoming your own ‘brand ambassador’ is essential to selling yourself. Consistently sharing your expertise, interests, and career goals allows others to understand who you are and what you bring to the table. Having your own strong personal brand can attract job opportunities that align with your skills and values.
Ray Baptiste - With over 30 years of recruitment experience, I’ve helped thousands of mid-career professionals and those over 50 find jobs that match their skills and passions. Whether you're just starting your search or fine-tuning your interview technique, I can provide the guidance you need to succeed.
If you're ready to take control of your job search and land your next role with confidence, I’m here to help. Contact me at ray@aionion.co.uk, or book a coaching session to start your journey toward your ideal career.
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