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Networking is a very important part of the job search. It has been estimated that as many as 70% of jobs are filled without being advertised. Many of these jobs are filled by word of mouth and advertising within the company.

One of the most important things that you can do if you want to get ahead in the job world has everything to do with networking. As any person who has had success will tell you, successful job networking can open some doors and give you opportunities that might not have been there before. But with that in mind, it’s worth considering the best ways to get out there and network. How do you get your name out there and make the connections that can help you get ahead in your career development?

Networking through volunteer work

As you might figure out in time, many of the most successful people like to get out and volunteer. They put themselves on boards for various charitable organizations both because it looks good and because they have the time to give back. If you are able to get out and put your name in the hat for some of these volunteer activities, you will be able to impress people who have the ability to advance your career. The thing about networking that is most important is not only meeting people, but it’s impressing people. You have to show them that you have the ability to work and work well.

Ask for nothing to begin with

When you’re trying to make networking connections, your first instinct might be to ask for things. After all, these connections are intended to help you down the road. No one likes to feel as if they’re being used, so when you’re trying to cultivate relationships, do so without any expectations. If you have something to offer your networking connections, then provide them with that offering. It will do absolutely no good for you to ask for things at the beginning. As you develop and maintain a relationship with certain people, you wil find that they will be very interested in helping you down the road.

First impressions are important

If you really want to make the best networking connections possible, then you always need to keep your own appearance in mind. You never know when you’re going to meet someone who can help you in your career. If you aren’t prepared to make a positive first impression, then you might burn a potential networking option for good. People have a tendency to remember the first time they met you and they will remember each and every little thing about how you presented yourself. If you’re smart, you will put yourself in a positive light for these people to consider.

Don’t expect networking to be a quick fix for your job search. It can take time for your relationship-building efforts to pay off. You need to put in the effort to get to know people, and trust that you will see results from it. But the best time to begin building your network is while you are still employed.

Manish Patel is a founder of several job websites in Canada. More Resources are available for job networking in canada at our site Jobhubcanada.com