How Do I Let My Network Know That I Am Looking For A Job?

By Lisa Osiako
“I recently lost my job, and I am looking for one now. I have seen people posting on social media and job recruitment agencies that they are looking for a job. I am not sure what approach to take so as to notify my network that I am job searching. Is using social media a good idea? How do I do that without my contacts feeling like they are doing me a favor?”
It is okay to let people know that you are looking for a job, and what exactly you are looking for in the job. In many cases, it is your networks that will in one way or the other help you. You never really know who in your network may know about an opening that is a perfect match for you. Also your chances of being considered for a job increase when you have someone connected to the company or job. Make the best out of your connections, not leaving behind your social media networks.
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How then do you go about letting your network know that you are looking for a job, without them thinking it is a favor?
1. Send out e-mails
You can decide either to send out mass-emails or individual e-mails, so long as at the end of the day, you get it done. Individual e-mails are better at putting the message across, simply because individuals are more inclined to help when they feel like you are reaching out to them. In this, there is a feeling of responsibility attached to that individual within your network.
In the e-mail, make sure you explain that you are looking for a specific type of job, and then explain to them what you would want them to do. Be specific and direct. Not only ask them to let you know if they hear about something, but also ask them to think about whether they know anyone who might be helpful for you to talk to. Lastly, attach your resume.
2. Use social media networks
Here, I am not talking about posting that you are looking for a job. This has to be done in a subtle yet more precise way. Show your skills and what you are good at by including it into your bio. Also, include where you previously worked.
If you are not on LinkedIn, this is the best time to join so as to set yourself up for the coming year. When recruiters are looking for someone to fill a role, they search LinkedIn for keywords that indicate someone is looking for a job. Your tagline on LinkedIn is therefore what will either make you visible or invisible to a recruiter.
Some of the keywords you can use include: “Seeking opportunities, looking for a new role etc.” Also, include your industry and the fact that you are searching for a new job. Similarly, you can also use your Twitter bio to become more visible.
3. Directly speak to them
If you have someone specific in mind that would be very helpful in your job search, find some time and speak to them directly. Here, you can find out if their company is hiring. Take your outreach a notch higher by seeing if they know other people who might know something. This helps you in networking even more as you are not tapping into just one network, but many more.
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In conclusion,
There is no shame in asking your network to help you find a job. Many people are willing to help if they can. Use your networks, and you will also build more networks in the process. Good luck in your Job Search!