Stop Applying for Jobs! – KDnuggets

The traditional approach of submitting countless job applications often feels like shouting into the void. I have seen many recent graduates apply to 500 jobs and received zero responses. Do you know why? The system is broken. Your job application often never reaches HR; it’s automatically rejected by the applicant tracking system (ATS) for multiple reasons. New graduates are full of hope, but that hope quickly fades when they realize they are not employable.

Instead of worrying about why this happens, let’s focus on how you can land a job through networking and LinkedIn.

Why Traditional Job Applications Fall Short

Relying solely on job applications can be a frustrating and often futile exercise. Here are a few reasons why this approach might not be serving you well:

• Competition: Each job posting can receive thousands of applications, making it difficult for your resume to stand out.
• Applicant Tracking Systems: Many companies use these systems to filter applications, which can mean your resume is never seen by a human if it doesn’t contain the right keywords.
• Lack of Personalization: Standardized applications and cover letters can fail to convey your unique strengths and personality.
• Limited Scope: Many jobs are filled internally or through referrals before they are ever advertised.

The Network Advantage

Networking opens doors that the traditional application process simply can’t. Here’s why:

• Access to the Hidden Job Market: 70% positions are filled through internal referrals or never advertised. Networking allows you to tap into these opportunities.
• Relationship Building: Networking focuses on building relationships instead of just exchanging business cards. This strategy can promote long-term career development and collaboration. Furthermore, you may find a mentor who can assist you in improving your skills in the field.
• Direct Access to Decision-Makers: Networking can provide opportunities to interact directly with hiring managers, bypassing the gatekeepers like AI application systems.
• Increased Credibility: A recommendation from someone within the company or industry can carry significant weight, giving you an edge over other candidates.

How to Network Effectively

Effective networking is more than just attending events or sending LinkedIn requests. Here’s how to make your networking efforts count:

• Start with Your Existing Network: Reach out to former colleagues, classmates, and acquaintances. You never know who might have a connection to your dream job.
• Engage on Social Media: Platforms like LinkedIn are invaluable for connecting with industry leaders and joining relevant groups where you can participate in discussions.
• Attend Industry Events: Conferences, webinars, and workshops are great places to meet people who share your professional interests.
• Be Genuine and Provide Value: Approach networking as a two-way street. Offer help, share insights, and be genuinely interested in other people’s work and challenges.
• Build a Strong Portfolio: Share your projects, research, and notable achievements on LinkedIn to create a strong profile and keep it up to date.

Action Steps to Get Started

I know it is hard to start from zero and build your portfolio, but here are simple steps you can take that will help you get started:

1. Set Clear Goals: Determine what you want to achieve through networking, whether it’s learning about a specific industry, finding job openings, or gaining career advice.
2. Identify Key Contacts: List people within your network or industry who could provide valuable insights or connections.
3. Schedule Regular Networking Activities: Dedicate time each week to reach out to new contacts, follow up with existing ones, and engage in online discussions.
4. Prepare Your Elevator Pitch: Clearly articulate who you are, what you do, and what you’re looking for in a brief, compelling way.
5. Showcase Your Project: Post about what you are learning daily and promote your projects. This can help recruiters who are looking for expertise in your area find you.
6. Expand Your Online Presence: Develop a simple website to showcase your work, skills, and achievements. This acts as a central hub for your portfolio and can be easily shared with potential contacts.
7. Seek Feedback: Share your portfolio with trusted mentors or colleagues and ask for constructive feedback. Use their insights to improve and refine your work.
8. Volunteer or Freelance:  While you are looking for jobs, consider volunteering or freelancing to build your experience and also earn some income.

Remember!

Effective networking is about more than just sending spam messages or reaching out to hundreds of people through cold emails. It’s about cultivating meaningful relationships. Focus on building genuine connections with individuals who share your professional interests and values. These relationships can lead to opportunities that you might not find through traditional job applications.

Keep in mind that building a network takes time, so don’t rush the process. It’s a long-term investment that will benefit you greatly in the future.

Conclusion

Job boards and online applications are not entirely obsolete; people do land jobs by submitting resumes online. By integrating networking into your career strategy, you can significantly enhance your prospects.

Shifting your focus from applying for jobs to connecting with others can unlock a world full of opportunities that may propel your career forward in ways you never imagined. Start building your network today and start posting on LinkedIn daily. It will help you create your brand and following.

Abid Ali Awan (@1abidaliawan) is a certified data scientist professional who loves building machine learning models. Currently, he is focusing on content creation and writing technical blogs on machine learning and data science technologies. Abid holds a Master’s degree in technology management and a bachelor’s degree in telecommunication engineering. His vision is to build an AI product using a graph neural network for students struggling with mental illness.