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Embrace networking

As 70 - 80% of job vacancies are not advertised, networking has become a crucial job search strategy to use.

Networking is a skill that needs to be learnt, so give yourself time to develop confidence.  There’s no better time to start than the present and practise is key.

Networking is a focused effort to:

  • engage with the people you know
  • develop new contacts
  • actively seek out new advice, knowledge, ideas and referrals
  • build relationships in advance of needing them
  • help people and be helped
  • get to know people who are in a position to hire you
  • contribute knowledge to a group or industry for the purpose of building your reputation

Strategies to try:

There are many ways to network that can suit all types of people. If you don’t feel comfortable with a group approach, then try out an approach that requires one-on-one interaction. Social media now enables you to connect without even leaving home. If social media is your networking strategy of choice, be sure to also network with people through face to face strategies from time to time; the value of a meaningful face to face human interaction should not be forgotten.

Get involved in groups and events

Do you feel fearful and uncertain about networking at an event? Are you procrastinating and putting it off til next week, next month? Visit our tips for successful networking

Conduct informational interviews

Career information interviewing is conducted if you are considering entering an occupation, but would like more information before making your final decision. It’s also a good way to meet new people and grow your network.

Use Deakin’s Career Mentoring database to find an experienced professional to conduct an informational interview.

Learn more: Explore your career options - informational interviewing (100 KB)

Tap into your existing network

Ask yourself "do people in my personal network have contacts who are working in my intended industry or occupation?" Ask your:

  • friends, family and neighbours
  • former employers
  • fellow students and academic staff

Contribute knowledge

Actively seek out opportunities to contribute knowledge to a group or industry. This can:

  • increase your credibility
  • ensure that you are well known amongst peers and potential employers

Good luck and remember to contact your nearest Careers and Employment office for assistance

Back to Careers and Employment homepage

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21st June 2012