Build Your Own Canadian Network

Did you know that networking is the activity
where people seek to build professional relationships with others who can
support them with a simple interaction? So, take the first step and start a
conversation!

According to a report
from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Yale University, around 70%
of jobs are found through networking. In Canada, as elsewhere, networking
communicates your value to others.

Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance. To
network successfully, you need strong communication skills and willingness to
engage with others.

First of all, ask yourself:

1.- What are my main strengths and weaknesses?

2.- What makes me different? 

3.- What are my goals? 

Most newcomers that land in Canada and start
their job search often hear the word “networking”. However, not many immigrants
are fully aware of the real power of networking. Networking will give you
access to the hidden job market, which are the positions filled without the
employer advertising them (65-85% of the jobs are not posted online).

Newcomers are generally apprehensive about
asking for meetings or help. But most of the people you’ll meet and interact
with are friendly and approachable. If you need to find a mentor, many
settlement agencies in Canada like Ontario Immigration, Mentor Exchange and Mentorship BC offer mentoring/coaching partnerships and programs to
help newcomers improve their chances of finding a good opportunity.

Not all networking in Canada is about face to
face meetings. Some people feel more comfortable networking by telephone or
email. However, it’s always more difficult to get someone’s attention by email,
so we recommend people to use telephone, meet in person or via LinkedIn. This
last one is a fantastic tool to look for companies, individuals and working
relationships.

Ready to network? LCBN shares with you some tips that may be helpful in your hunting:

·         Review Job offers

·         Focus on adding and interact with new online and offline contacts

·         Introduce yourself to others

·         Find a mentor that guides you

·         Look up for insights of specific organizations, hiring processes, etc.

·         Find a way to access the job opportunities that aren’t public yet

·         Learn more about the industry/sector of your interest

·         Stay in touch with your network

·         Don’t forget to follow up

Once you have a strong network, make sure to create a list of your contacts and try to keep them updated with positive messages each week. This step is really important, as it’s crucial to keep yourself in their mind.

“Networking is an investment in your business. It takes time and when done correctly can yield great results for years to come.”

– Diane Helbig

Do you want to learn more about networking? Join us in our next virtual LCBN Café and get ready to expand your network. Follow us on Instagram for the upcoming dates.