When finding a good job, the professional connections you make can propel your career forward.
It doesn’t matter if you want to advance to a full-time position or continue to enjoy the variety and flexibility of contract or temporary work. Developing a good rapport with the professionals you meet along the way is vital to obtaining your next great position.
How to Build Your Professional Network
The process of building strong professional connections is called networking.
“Professional networking means deliberately creating and maintaining relationships with others who can help you further your career or personal brand,” notes Business News Daily. “You can only get so far by yourself; professional progression and opportunities are driven by the relationships you build.”
How to Build Your Network
A professional network involves connecting with others in your field. As you develop your network, a staffing agency recruiter is an excellent first contact.
“Recruiters spend much time making connections through databases, phone calls, and face-to-face networking. By using a recruiter during your job search, your network grows exponentially,” says Top Resume.
In other words, an agency recruiter knows the people who hire people who do what you do. These are the connections you want to make to advance your career.
How to Find a Recruiter
Suppose you don’t already work with a recruiter, research to locate a staffing firm in your area that specializes in placements in your career field. LinkedIn, Indeed, and other job boards are great places to discover agencies and contact recruiters.
How to Build a Relationship with a Recruiter
Your recruiter will want to know much about you, including your work history, work preferences, and career goals. The more they understand your background, skills, and objectives, the better the fit between you and your subsequent placement will likely be. In other words, they’ll help you make excellent connections to expand your network.
A beneficial candidate-recruiter relationship begins with honesty, notes job search strategist and career blogger Jenny Foss.
“Be clear and honest about your goals,” as well as with details like salary and commuting restraints, says the founder of JobJenny. If you don’t feel a job will be a good fit for some reason, say so. Otherwise, you’re wasting everyone’s time, including your own.
As with any professional relationship, you should maintain professional courtesies. Communication is key. Be available and responsive to your recruiter.
If you’re into temporary work for the long haul, keeping in touch with your recruiter throughout your assignment can help when you’re ready for your next gig.
Other Ways to Maximize Your Professional Network
Although your recruiter is an excellent networking resource, other ways exist to expand your professional connections.
LinkedIn suggests these helpful avenues for networking:
- Expand your skills through training, mentoring, or coaching programs your temporary employer offers.
- Attend events, webinars, or workshops to expand your contacts and exposure.
- Ask for referrals, recommendations, or testimonials from your recruiter and supervisor.
Reach Out to a Recruiter
Getting a good job indeed depends on who you know. Maybe it’s time to get to know a good recruiter. Contact STS Staffing today to find out more.