Networking: The Route to Jobs That Are Never Advertised
In Jamaica, it is often said that it is not what you know but who you know. That is not the whole truth, but networking does open doors to jobs that never make it to a job board. The good news is that networking is simply building real relationships, and anyone can learn it.
Start with the people you already know. Family, friends, neighbours, church members, past teachers, classmates and former co-workers are all part of your network. Tell them what kind of work you are looking for and what you are good at.
Be specific. "I'm looking for anything" is hard to help with. "I'm a UTech accounting graduate looking for an entry-level role in Kingston or St Catherine" gives people something to work with.
Reconnect with your school and college. Past students' associations for high schools, UWI and UTech alumni groups and HEART/NSTA Trust training centres all connect you with people working in your field.
Join professional groups. Most professions in Jamaica have an association or society. Attend events, volunteer and get to know members.
Ask for advice, not a job. People are much more willing to share what they know than to promise work. Ask about their career, their company and their industry. Opportunities often follow.
Use social media wisely. Keep your profiles professional, share useful content in your field and engage politely with people you want to learn from.
Follow up and give back. Thank people for their time, keep them updated and help others when you can. Networking works both ways.
Be patient. Relationships take time to grow, but they keep paying off throughout your career.
Pair your networking with regular job searching. Splash Jamaica has just relaunched and posting jobs is currently free, so check in often.