Job seekers struggle with identifying and connecting with networking contacts during a job search, according to a survey of more than 440 job seekers by talent mobility consulting firm Lee Hecht Harrison.
The survey found that 31 percent of job seekers have a difficult time identifying networking partners, while 25 percent lack a clear strategy for attending networking meetings. Further, 24 percent struggle to make contact and 19 percent lack confidence in networking situations.
Lee Hecht Harrison surveyed 442 U.S job seekers via an online poll in April 2014 asking, “What area of job search networking is most frequently holding you back?” The survey identified:
Identifying potential networking partners |
31% |
Lack of clear strategy at networking meetings |
25% |
Making initial contact via phone or email |
24% |
Lacking confidence at group networking events |
19% |
“The reality is that most job openings are never advertised or posted, which means tapping your network is an essential job search resource to uncover hidden opportunities.
In fact, 63 percent of job seekers land new jobs through networking,” said Greg Simpson, Senior Vice President, Career Transition Practice Leader at Lee Hecht Harrison. “Developing a strong network and fruitful relationships takes real work. Individuals must be proactive and devote time to building and nurturing a strong career network of contacts.”
Simpson believes a little coaching and guidance can turn any reluctant networker into a pro.
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