Don't forget to network!

Imagine losing your job and wanting to quickly find a new position with another employer. The first thing that comes to mind is applying for jobs. Naturally, creating a polished CV and a well-crafted cover letter is an effective way to find work.

But don’t forget to network! Studies show that combining job applications with exploratory networking conversations can increase your chances of finding a job by a factor of 7. Most vacancies are never posted online or in writing but are instead filled directly through networking.

At Dynamisch Bureau, we’ve been fans of the book Netwerken Werkt by Els Nijssen and Rob van Eeden since our founding in 2005. It has become a classic, though unfortunately, new editions are no longer published. The essence of the book remains highly relevant: ask for advice, not (immediately) for a job. Be curious about others and use that curiosity to your advantage.

How to Approach Networking

1. Start with a clear goal.

A clear goal answers these questions: What is my next career step? Why do I want to take this step? What makes me suitable for it?
Easier said than done—this often requires a period of self-reflection and orientation first.

2. Present your goal and refine it.

The people closest to you know you best. Share your goal with them. Do they recognize you in it? Do they have any suggestions for improvement?

3. Talk to people who work in roles that interest you.

Satisfied with your goal? Great! Now it’s time to start real networking. Reach out to people via your network or LinkedIn who are working in roles that excite you. If you ask them to share more about their work because you find it interesting, there’s a good chance they’ll agree to a conversation. A bonus: these people are often the first to know when a vacancy becomes available. Networking can suddenly lead to a job application!

4. Create a top 10 list of organizations.

A final step in your so-called networking campaign is to identify 10 organizations where you would like to work. As much as possible, talk to decision-makers who can give you a lot of information about the organization. And be able to show you the way of recruiting new employees within their organization.

Feeling Overwhelmed? If reading these steps makes you think, “Oh no!”—don’t worry! You can always schedule an introductory meeting with us to explore how we might support you in finding a job where you can truly live your talents!

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