Did you know that a whopping 85% of job placements occur through networking? While submitting online and in-person job applications remains crucial, having a personal connection can significantly boost your chances of getting noticed. Even if you've recently moved to California or are an international student at Westcliff University, you have more networking opportunities than you might think! In our hyper-connected world, everyone is just 3.57 degrees away from each other. Here's how to make networking work for you:
- Leverage Westcliff University: Start by building your network right within the university community. Connect with classmates, professors, and staff on LinkedIn. Expanding your connections on this platform can open doors, as you become second-degree connections to everyone in their networks.
- Reach Out to Your Existing Contacts: If you have friends, family, or any work history in the USA, don't hesitate to reach out to them. Instead of immediately asking for a job referral, initiate a genuine conversation to catch up and inquire about their well-being. Once you've reconnected, you can express your job search intentions and ask if they know of any opportunities. Always emphasize the importance of staying in touch.
- Explore Professional Associations: Consider joining professional associations related to your career. While some may have membership fees or event costs, these can be valuable investments in your future. It's essential to weigh the benefits against the expenses and decide what's best for your career path.
- Engage with Chambers of Commerce: Local Chambers of Commerce are hubs of support for businesses in your area. Their websites often feature event calendars and business directories. Attending their events can help you connect with local professionals and gain insight into job opportunities.
- Discover Specialized Groups: Seek out specialized groups that align with your background or interests. These groups, often overlapping with Chambers of Commerce, provide excellent opportunities for networking. Examples include the Iranian Chamber of Commerce in OC, the Black Chamber of Commerce in OC, and the Asian Business Association OC, .https://www.uschamber.com/co/chambers
- Attend Local In-Person Events: Don't underestimate the power of in-person gatherings. Humans thrive on social interactions, and attending events can lead to valuable relationships, job prospects, stress relief, fresh ideas, and more. Platforms like MeetUp and Eventbrite can help you discover local events, from career fairs to board game meetups, soccer games, live music, book/wine clubs, photography clubs, and so much more!
- Volunteer and Give Back: Volunteering is an incredible way to get involved in your community while expanding your network. You never know who you'll meet while making a positive impact. The magic of networking often lies in unexpected encounters.
Remember, networking is not just about job hunting; it's about building lasting connections and nurturing relationships. With the right approach, your network can become a powerful tool in your career journey, leading you to exciting opportunities you might not have found otherwise.