Networking tips to help you land a better job

Networking, for many of us, isn’t very exciting. The idea of “selling yourself” to others in order to get ahead is not something that feels natural or rewarding. Thankfully, networking has morphed over the years, and handing your business card out at awkward functions or meetups is no longer the only way to get ahead and meet new folks.

Alicia-joy at Transitions in Nursing is going to do an entire series of blog posts with her tips on using modern day networking to get noticed and meet the right people to help you land your dream nursing gig. Here’s a bit from her first post:

Start by leveraging the relationships you already have. Make a list of 20 people you already know who can be instrumental to your job search.

Not sure who should be on the list? Here a few examples. As always use your discretion based upon whether you had/have a good/decent relationship with the people you contact:

• Former co-workers
• Former managers/supervisors/directors
• Management on another floor/unit/department
• Nurses on another floor/unit/department
• Former nursing school classmates
• Most people in the medical field. I know this last one is vague. But you never know who you are already connected with who knows about new opportunities or is friends/family/acquainted with hiring/nurse managers.

The point is to be open and not to discount anyone. You will probably hear me say that a lot. It is a powerful concept that can open many doors for you in your career.

• But don’t stop by just listing their names. Think of ways to either re-connect with these individuals or ways you can build this relationship further. Also think of what value you can provide for them (do you have contacts/advice, resources/referrals that may be helpful for them). Lastly, list what value they can offer to you (do they have connections? resources? information, etc). Also be sure to let them know that you’re seeking a career opportunity. Be wise about this and be mindful of reaching out to individuals who will not jeopardize your current employment, if that is a possibility. As always, I encourage you take quick action. The faster you start something, the less the chance of that dreaded procrastination ever setting in. So go write your list and post in the comments below how you did.

To read the rest of her first post on networking, head over to Transitions in Nursing. When you’re done, be sure to let us know you’re on tips for landing a better job in the comments below.

Check out the second and third parts of this series!