fbpx

Networking

Networking done correctly is authentic and creates great relationships.  That’s what you want. Beware of poor networking that is awkward, insincere and detrimental to your reputation.

Here are a few tips to help you feel confident networking.  In this way you will make good contacts within your preferred industry.  At the same time you will find out about the industry from an insider’s perspective.

Targeted networking

  • Attend networking events that are related to the industry that you are targeting.
  • Join LinkedIn and set up your profile if you haven’t already done so.
  • Consider joining a paid level of LinkedIn for a while if you are going to use it to its full capacity.
  • Join a few groups directly related to your professional interests. Start making some pertinent comments within the group so they know you are there.
  • Read the profiles of organizations that you think you might be interested in working for.  You can find them through Google or go direct to their websites. Then on LinkedIn look for appropriate people from these organizations and contact them directly to see if you can have a chat with them.
  • Use online forums related to your industry. You can make comments and make connections with people. This is only useful if the people who are influencers in your industry are using the same forums.  You aren’t there just to make friends!
  • Buy a few business magazines and professional journals and use these for additional research about organizations and senior people within those organizations.
  • Can your job search be public knowledge? If it doesn’t matter who knows that you are looking, reach out to Facebook and other social media connections in your wider circle of friends.

Informational interviewing

  • Contact people respectfully and appropriately through LinkedIn, journals or through anyone you know (friends of friends etc) who work within the industry or companies that interest you.  I emphasize “respectfully and appropriately”.
  • Don’t approach them with the intention of applying for a job. Make it very clear to them that you aren’t looking for a job.  Be sure they understand you are just seeking their expertise and opinion about getting work within that industry.  Therefore it is best if you do it before you are seriously job-hunting.  Don’t expect to get more than 15 minutes of their time.
  • Have a few really good questions ready, but not too many because they won’t be happy if you take up too much time.
  • End on a really positive note and send them a note or an email to say thanks for their time.

BoomersNextStep has many job search posts

You will find many posts that will help you with your job search.  Go back to the menu item – Your Employment – and look at the drop down menu.  All aspects of career change and seeking a new job are covered in those posts.  Wishing you the best of luck with your job search.

Articles

  • Common job search mistakes made by older workers March 31, 2021
    There are 10 job search mistakes often made by older workers which cause them to miss out on opportunities for work that they want. This article will outline them for you but first, let’s not blame everything on age discrimination
  • The Plight of an Older Worker Searching for a Job September 1, 2019
    Being an older worker is a definite disadvantage in the jobs market. Don’t be dishearted. Read on for stories and tips to get the job you want.
  • Seven Keys to Working With Recruiters July 27, 2019
    Working with a recruiter could be one of the best career decisions you’ve ever made. It can also be a serious waste of time and lead to disappointment and even resentment. Choosing the right firm, the right recruiter and getting off on the right foot can be essential steps to landing you in a position ...
  • 10 Tips for Finding A Job for Over 40 July 15, 2019
    Finding a job over 40 can be difficult in some industries. Despite it being an age when it is important to firmly establish your career, many people over 40 find themselves out of work. And is being out of work can be a lonely time. It is important to spend time with other people in both ...
  • Advanced LinkedIn Job Search Strategies April 21, 2019
    Tips on Using LinkedIn for Job Search Many professionals understand the importance of LinkedIn in your job search and how to start pursuing job opportunities using this professional networking platform. Once you have these basics under your belt, you are ready to move forward to more advanced LinkedIn job search strategies listed below. Note: These are tips ...
  • Supplementing Your Income Networking on the Internet April 9, 2019
    Do you run out of money before your next check comes in? Whether you are a stay at home parent, retired, or perhaps your income just isn’t enough, you may be interested in internet networking for supplementing your income. Not only has the internet supplied businesses the advertising mechanism to turn their small or local ...
  • How To Tap Into The Hidden Job Market March 4, 2019
    Tap into the Hidden Job Market! Cast your job search net wider and be proactive by tapping into the hidden job market. Are you aware that more than half of job vacancies are filled without job ads?  This usually happens through internal appointments, people making their availability known to an organization they would like to work for, ...

6 FAQs and a Sample Template for Your Resume Reference Page

May 5, 2017

It’s important to write a strong resume reference page, and to learn how to manage your references with ease. References […]

Read More
Learn how to make the best resume by adding life to your statements. Read these tips on Turning 13 Most Overused Resume Phrases to Achievement Statements

Turning 13 Most Overused Resume Phrases to Achievement Statements

August 17, 2019

Learn how you can give life to your resume by adapting the overused resume phrases into lively achievement statements. Giving examples of what you have already achieved provides much more impact in a resume than just listing your duties or responsibilities.

Read More

Getting an income when you’re young at heart in the USA 2023

January 31, 2023

There are many ways that seniors in the United States can get income. Here are a few suggestions: Social Security: […]

Read More

Rebuilding Your Network

April 9, 2017

Tips on Rebuilding Your Network As the economy warms up, more of your contacts are on the move — and […]

Read More
successful-interview-questions

Interview Questions To Ask And Avoid

July 12, 2020

If you want job interview success it’s best to prepare a well thought out list of intelligent interview questions, regardless of the level of seniority you have achieved during your career. You will impress your prospective new employer during the interview process if you demonstrate knowledge of their business and ask appropriate questions. 

Read More
Rules for Success - Simon Sinek

Top 10 Rules for Success – Simon Sinek

January 23, 2018

Simon Sinek‘s top rules for success are complied in this interesting video. Whatever you want to do with your life […]

Read More

What to see and to do in Mexico

April 12, 2022

Mexico is an old and big country. Everyone can discover something intriguing in this land. Ancient pyramids and temples, big […]

Read More
Thailand Hill Tribe Family

Thailand Travel Experience – Hill Tribe Family

July 21, 2013

Our Thailand Travel, Visiting the Hill Tribe Family Getting off the beaten track has always been my husband, David’s, idea […]

Read More

How to Regain Your Confidence When It’s Been Shattered

October 29, 2014

How’s your mojo? Do you need to regain your confidence? It’s funny how, when you are younger, you presume that older […]

Read More

How to Write a Resume After a Career Break

March 29, 2017

Even after a two week holiday, it can seem as if a lot has changed when you return from work. […]

Read More

Tent Outdoor Camping for Senior Citizens

April 14, 2022

According to industry statistics, the average age of a tent camper is 40 years. Does this mean seniors should forget […]

Read More
Working With a Career Coach - What Every Job Seeker Must Know

Working With a Career Coach – What Every Job Seeker Must Know

April 9, 2019

In today’s tough economy, every job seeker needs assistance in landing his next employment opportunity in the most efficient and […]

Read More

Camping Guidance for Retirees

August 16, 2023

Getting Outdoors Brings New Experiences Even the most ordinary activities will seem brand-new when done in the outdoors. Sometimes, simple […]

Read More
Caring for Older Parents

Caring for Older Parents: 5 Tips for Balancing Decision-Making and Keeping Sibling Relationships Intact

February 25, 2015

  Elder care is growing concern around the world, with many older people needing assistance to live their lives with […]

Read More

What to do for two weeks in Prague

July 31, 2022

Prague is a beautiful and historic city with a wide range of things to see and do. Here are just […]

Read More
Employee to Entrepreneur: A Big Retirement Transition

Employee to Entrepreneur: A Big Retirement Transition

September 11, 2019

In this new stage of your life you can make an exciting retirement transition from being what you’ve always been […]

Read More