We want to come up with dozens of avenues to find the job that we want, and we want to make the process as painless as possible. Is that possible? Absolutely. Let’s examine two ways to find job openings: first, is your network and, second, is the more creative networking via some oddball methods. Each one has its drawbacks, but each one may also point you in the right direction, provided you use each of them properly.
Let’s focus on networking, the right way. Most social media profiles, like LinkedIn and others, are built around the concept that professionals benefit from keeping in touch with each other. You don’t necessarily need that, but what you need to do is understand that every member of your circle of friends, former co-workers and even family could help you out, and not in the way you think.
A good first step is to simply get out the news. Making a statement at a family dinner, or the next time you talk to your friends is a good start. Letting former co-workers know as well is important. It doesn’t matter whether or not they are members of the industry that you want to enter, either.
For example, our administrative assistant who wants to go into healthcare may talk to an uncle who is a contractor and hear that he recently completed work on a new doctor’s office, or an alarm system technician’s cousin who has heard about potential hiring.
Another option is, well, a bit daffy. Or, at least it can feel that way. If you are not having much luck applying to job ads, or leveraging your network, you may need to get a little creative.
How creative? That’s really up to you. If you want to get a job in a new industry, and don’t have a lot of contacts, make them. For example, if you’re looking to get into healthcare, ask your family physician’s nurses if you can have coffee with them. Or contact local nursing schools in the area to see if you can get in touch with any professors. The price of a coffee isn’t too high, and usually people you know are willing to find ways to help you out. Be sure to let them know that they are important to you because of their expertise and their experience.
Tags: Healthcare, Job Opening, Network, Nurse, Social Network
