Introduction

You might be the reason why you can’t secure your dream job. Wait a moment! I’m here to help you do better. In today’s competitive job market, securing your dream job can be challenging, especially for those who are new to the workforce or seeking a career change. 

The two major ways people apply for a job are LinkedIn and at events. So, let’s step into the shoes of a recruiter. It’s a humid Wednesday morning and you put out an ad for a role that needs filling immediately. You set up the requirements, post the job on LinkedIn and return to your tasks. Two hours later, you see over 50 applications you have to sort through and the ad is scheduled for two weeks. 

Now step out of their shoes. The truth remains that recruiters are sorting through numerous applications daily and if yours does not stand out then you most likely will not get a response. How then can you make yourself stand out?

How You Can Land Your Dream Job Through Business Networking

Network Horizontally

• Build Relationships

Now, this does not necessarily mean meeting your industry heroes. A practical way to build a business network is to connect with professionals on the same level you are on, whatever level that may be. Networking horizontally is easier than networking vertically. Business networking is not just about exchanging business cards, it’s about building a relationship. When you network horizontally, you position yourself as a contributor to your industry and this increases your visibility among potential employers.

• Use Business Networking Apps

Also, it does not always have to be hard. So many apps exist for the sole purpose of helping you connect and stay connected to your business network, use them. Some of my personal favourites are LinkedIn and Beezlinq. One business contact may change the trajectory of your career and networking can ensure you meet them.

Put Yourself Out There

• Create a Professional Profile

This tip is for everyone but particularly for creatives whose work requires some form of portfolio to sell them. I have come across many genius creatives who want their work will speak for them. This is almost delusional. For your work to even speak for you it has to be found. Most times, presenting yourself in a package eases the job of the recruiter. This package can be an online portfolio, a website, or a digital business card. 

• Use Digital Business Cards

Why is this important? Your profile is your ambassador, it must scream professionalism at all times. If you are starting out, a website as a portfolio may be an unnecessary cost but apps like Beezlinq allow you to create free business cards that you can showcase your skills, achievements and personality. Let your digital business card double as your mini portfolio.

Follow-Up is Cringe but Essential

• Send Follow-Up Messages

You may cringe through the process and after but still send that follow-up message. Life is about connections and sending a follow-up message may lead you to the one you need. In finding your dream job, follow-up is your silent warrior. It is what makes you a lasting impression instead of a fleeting memory. Follow-up can be a personalized thank-you message after an event or a meaningful social media interaction. The ultimate goal is to nurture the relationship.

• Offer Help and Share Information

Follow-up can also look like offering your help and sharing relevant information. These small gestures can make a big difference in building lasting professional relationships.

Use Business Networking Platforms the Right Way

• Make Yourself Visible

Networking platforms like LinkedIn can be intimidating. It always seems like someone else is making groundbreaking moves every second of the day and it can sometimes feel like an exclusive club. However, networking platforms are pools of opportunities. Take Beezlinq for example, users can search for different professionals they want to connect with. That could be a recruiter searching.

• Express Your Eagerness to Learn

Utilizing these business networking platforms would mean making yourself visible on these platforms. If you have no prior experience then let your profile express your eagerness to learn. These platforms are not to be ignored or shied away from. Let your clicks, comments and connections count! 

Conclusion

Landing your dream job involves placing yourself strategically in the market. We often think networking is smoke and mirrors but it isn’t. Business networking is your key to securing that dream job. Building a business network is building a community of allies. If you want to learn the basics of business networking and how to advance your career, you’re definitely in the right place!