Networking partners can make valuable referrals that lead to job opportunities. Furthermore, they may give insight into jobs not listed.

Everybody knows people that could help in your job search; whether that be church members, recreational sports teammates or casual acquaintances.

1. Ask for Referrals

Referrals are one of the best ways to network for job opportunities. People tend to trust recommendations more than anonymous applicants who come with great resumes but no connection. This can be particularly true in smaller businesses where hiring processes may be more personal than they would be at larger corporations with many candidates competing for limited openings.

Successful networking relies on building meaningful relationships that will last throughout your career. Keep tabs on those who help, such as sending birthday cards or emailing about interesting articles you read.

Make it easy for others to refer you by making it clear that your request is genuine and genuine networking should never become hit-and-run; avoid becoming an intermittent networker by connecting and getting what you need before vanishes until the next time your need something from them.

2. Follow Up

Follow-up is one of the best ways to build connections and secure job opportunities. Showing that you are serious about taking up the position shows your commitment and can provide information which could aid with the hiring process.

Be cautious of when and how you follow up. Some companies explicitly state they do not want applicants to contact them prior to a certain date; if that is the case, then follow-up before this timeframe could be seen as rude or waste of time.

Emails are generally the preferred means of following up as they provide an easily searchable record of correspondence. Be sure to keep any follow up messages short and to the point; hiring managers have enough on their plate without being bombarded by long emails. Always conclude the email by thanking the recipient formally and offering additional details should they require any.

3. Be Honest

Networking has become the go-to method of choice for job hunters looking for their latest position, and approaching it properly is critical to finding success. Your connections may uncover hidden job opportunities not advertised but can become frustrated if you keep pestering them about assisting you in this regard - don't ask too often or they might stop helping out altogether!

Respect others as people first and foremost. Most individuals don't appreciate being used by unscrupulous job-seekers, so only ask for their assistance if your project would benefit both parties involved.

Find genuine ways to connect with new contacts (for instance by suggesting restaurants or books, providing expert advice or offering genuine friendship), so they are more likely to think of you when an opportunity presents itself. Let them know that their efforts are appreciated as well!

4. Be Prepared

Make sure that when networking, you come prepared. Being prepared not only means having copies of your resume at hand but being ready to articulate yourself meaningfully as well. Being fully prepared will increase confidence when talking with potential connections as well as open doors to opportunities you didn't expect!

Networking can help you locate many of the best job openings before they appear online job boards and receive hundreds of applications.

Be ready to offer help to your networking contacts as well. Most people are happy to provide advice or give out contact details if asked nicely, and once their efforts have paid off (either through connecting you with a job opportunity or providing interview tips), they're much more likely to remain loyal supporters.

5. Be Flexible

There are various opinions on the best way to search for a job, but most experts concur that networking should be prioritized as an essential strategy. Networking doesn't involve sending out dozens of job applications; rather, it involves developing relationships with those that could assist you now or in the future.

Everyday you are networking, whether or not you realize it. From conversations in store lines to meeting the parents of classmates of your child's classmates, networking occurs everywhere you look. The goal of networking is to form long-term relationships which benefit us all - be open and friendly toward anyone you come into contact with!

Flexible jobs have many advantages for employees and employers alike, including in-demand skills development and better work-life balance. Check out ViewSonic's Workplace Solutions Page for more information about flexible part time work opportunities or ways to work from home or on the go.

6. Be Creative

No one knows when or where you might meet someone with connections to the job market who could lead to your next career move. Be it an accomplished sculptor with an impressive resume or an Instagram influencer with thousands of followers on Instagram - don't be intimidated to explore these potential connections further.

Tapping into the hidden job market requires more work and time than searching online, but can often prove much more successful. You might discover your desired position hasn't even been advertised yet, and can network contacts can put in good word for you and provide information.

Networking should always be two-sided; keep in touch with your contacts by inviting them to events, asking about their families or sharing articles that may interest them - this demonstrates your initiative and forward thinking while simultaneously building relationships that could prove mutually beneficial in the future.