Effective online networking over the festive period

Using networking and speculative approaches as proactive job searching techniques are a great way to source opportunities, especially during the festive period.  Despite possible restrictions, cancelled events and a surge of people self-isolating, the festive period is still a great opportunity to virtually reconnect and have some valuable conversations about career plans and goals via LinkedIn and e-mail.

By networking online, you can learn about job opportunities that you may not otherwise be aware of, receive advice and information from fellow colleagues or contacts and ultimately be more informed about the job market you are searching in.

Keep an open mind

Everyone you know is potentially an important member of your network. They could be a family member, or someone you worked with on a four-week contract that you only spoke to briefly; even if they are not directly involved in your field, they may know somebody that is. Reconnect with your network, take the time to research companies that you would like to work for and consider some speculative introductions with the view of arranging meetings for the New Year.

Stay in touch

Embrace the opportunity during the festive period to build your professional network on LinkedIn. Online networking can help you connect with people you may not have had the opportunity to meet in ‘normal’ circumstances. Reignite dormant connections and engage your online network so it is working for you and serving its purpose.

Don’t use your network just for job hunting

Everybody gets fed up with the friend or family member that only gets in touch when they want something, and the same goes for network contacts. If you only get in contact with someone if you’re looking for a job, it could not only make them aware of how often you are out of a job (if that is the case) but will also make them feel a little used. Networking isn’t just about job hunting, it’s about finding contacts in a similar field or position, or with similar interests. And don’t forget that it’s a two-way system, your advice or help might be needed too.

Conduct research

Lots of people stop searching at this time of year, however this could be a great opportunity for you to proactively approach the organisations you are interested in working for, before the jobs become available. Use your networking skills to speculatively approach organisations and get ahead of other jobseekers in 2022.

Some companies will post yearly round ups on their websites in the form of “blogs” or “news” to highlight the successes they have had over 2021. You can use this information as a talking point at the beginning of a speculative letter to grab their attention and show your interest in their success and how you could contribute positively to their plans for the coming year.

Renovo is one of the UK’s leading providers of outplacement and career transition support. We work with both organisations and individuals to support all their career transition requirements. If you would like to understand how Renovo can help you please call 0800 612 2011 or email info@renovo.co.uk