Have you ever been amazed by the sheer power of connection? How a friend of a friend might just know someone who knows someone who could change the trajectory of your career? This isn't mere coincidence; it's the theory of the "Six Degrees of Separation," and it plays a pivotal role in the art and science of networking, especially in accessing the hidden job market.
The Intricacies of the "Six Degrees of Separation"
Originally posited by Frigyes Karinthy in 1929, the six degrees of separation theory posits that any two people on Earth are just six or fewer social connections apart. In the context of job hunting, this implies that you're theoretically connected to your dream job through just six people. Exciting, isn't it?
The Hidden Job Market: An Overview
Before diving into the strategies, it's essential to understand the "hidden job market." This term refers to positions that aren't publicly advertised or posted online. Some estimates suggest that up to 80% of jobs are filled through personal and professional connections, rendering them 'hidden' from conventional job-seeking platforms.
Strategies to Leverage the Six Degrees and Dive Deep into the Hidden Job Market
1. Revisit Your Existing Connections
Begin with your immediate network - friends, family, colleagues, and classmates. They form the first "degree" of your connections. You'd be surprised how often immediate connections know of opportunities but only share them when they're aware of your interests.
2. Engage in Active LinkedIn Networking
LinkedIn is the epitome of professional networking. However, it's not about the quantity of connections, but the quality. Engage with your connections regularly, comment on their updates, and keep your profile updated. Regular engagement keeps you at the top of their mind, increasing the chances they'll think of you when an opportunity arises.
3. Join Professional Associations
These associations are goldmines for networking. Not only do they offer industry insights, but they're also where professionals discuss opportunities, often before they're publicly listed.
4. Volunteer in Your Desired Field
Volunteering provides a dual advantage. First, it helps you gain experience and knowledge. Second, it puts you directly in touch with professionals in the field who can be integral in referring or recommending you.
5. Attend Networking Events and Seminars
Many opportunities arise from casual conversations. Events and seminars are perfect grounds to meet industry professionals. While discussing industry trends, you can subtly bring up your aspirations, paving the way for opportunities.
6. Seek Informational Interviews
Informational interviews aren't about seeking a job. Instead, they're about seeking advice, industry insights, and company culture. However, they indirectly serve as an avenue to express your interests and can often lead to referrals.
Deepening Your Networking Skills
· Practice Active Listening: Networking isn't about pushing your CV but forming genuine relationships. Listen actively, showing genuine interest in others' experiences and insights.
· Offer Value: Networking is a two-way street. If you come across an article, seminar, or opportunity relevant to someone in your network, share it with them. This reciprocity builds trust and mutual respect.
· Maintain Regular Contact: Don't reach out to your network only when you need something. Send occasional updates, share articles of mutual interest, or just drop a message to check in.
Harnessing the Power of Digital Tools
Apart from LinkedIn, there are numerous platforms to connect with industry professionals. Websites like Meetup can help find local networking events, while Twitter chats can be invaluable for real-time industry insights. Tools like Hunter.io can assist in finding email addresses for outreach, and platforms like AlumniFire open avenues to connect with alumni in your desired field.
In Conclusion
The world might seem vast, but it's more interconnected than you think. The six degrees of separation theory isn't just an interesting concept; it can be the cornerstone of your networking strategy, opening doors to the vast hidden job market.
In an age of information overload, the human connection holds unmatched value. While the task of networking may seem daunting, remember: every professional connection you make brings you one step closer to unearthing hidden opportunities.
So, reignite that connection, strike that conversation, attend that seminar, and dive deep into the world of networking. Your dream job could be just around the corner, waiting for you to discover it.
If you found value in this article, please share it with your network and let's help everyone unlock the hidden gems in their career journey!