Build Your Network To Land Your Dream Job
Making a career change is hard. With hundreds of applicants applying for DEI jobs, you have to find ways to stand out. You’d be surprised how many job seekers overlook the importance of networking as an essential element of their job search. Some roles are never even posted on a formal job board, and in many cases, companies rely heavily on employee referrals as a part of their talent acquisition strategy. Keep this in mind as you network your way to an opportunity that aligns with your passion for DEI.
Networking Benefits Your DEI Career Transition
Being referred by someone in your network can boost your resume to the top of the pile. And give you a higher chance of being interviewed. I’m a data person, so don’t take my word for it.
Let’s look at the stats:
A person who has a referral is 4x more likely to be offered a job than an online applicant
Referrals account for only 7% of applications, but 30-50% of hires
Over 85% of employees rate referrals above all other sourcing options
Without a referral, your resume has only a 20% chance of passing the ATS
Nearly 90% of employers say the ATS & RMS vet out qualified candidates
If you’ve been using the “spaghetti on the wall” approach, applying to every job with DEI in the title in it and hoping something sticks, STOP! A generic resume and application has about a 2% chance of getting to the right person. Identifying your transferable skills and developing a focused job search and networking strategy can reduce feelings of self-doubt, increase your visibility with hiring managers, and save you time and energy.
Here a 3 ways you can start building your network:
1. Attend Events (In-person or virtual)
DEI & HR Industry conferences
This is a great way to build relationships, find mentors, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and topics.
Volunteer
Get involved with local community groups. Give back, be an advocate, and build your network at the same time. Plus, it’s great experience to add to your resume.
Local Chamber of Commerce meetings
From monthly meetings to member events, these meetings provide a wealth of networking opportunities with your local businesses and leaders.
Affiliations/Organizations
If you are a part of a Greek letter organization, religious group, or national organization, don’t overlook this important part of your network. Let members know that you are transitioning careers.
2. Use Social Media
Reach out to your existing network and let them know you're job searching. Audit your accounts to clearly show your career focus. Connect with professionals who have job titles similar to your interest.
LinkedIn
This professional social media platform is a rich resource for career transitioners.
Following, engaging with posts, and re-sharing content are great ways to build online relationships. Joining DEI groups is also a great way to connect.
FB groups and Twitter
These are great places to connect with others in the roles you desire. Join the conversation and expand your network.
Informational interviews
Connect with a person ahead of you on the career transition journey. You can learn a lot by talking to someone in the role you want to do or a company you are interested in. DEI Coach Tip: Do more listening than talking. This is a learning opportunity.
3. Join the DEI Career Center Community
For just $19.99/month, you can access our monthly community connection calls, get access to career advice, and learn about relevant events for DEI professionals. As an added bonus, you get a discount on Group and 1:1 Career Coaching services with me- like resume audits and mock interviews. Join The DEI Career Center Community!
Building a strong network of relevant connections is extremely important, especially when making the pivot to a new career. As your DEI career coach, I can help you expand your network and gain more clarity and confidence as a job seeker by implementing a focused job search strategy. To learn more about how I can assist your DEI career transition, schedule a discovery call with me at DEIcareer.com