Networking During Your Job Search

Having the credentials and the skills when applying for the job may not always be enough to land it. But did you know that having weak ties can be the secret to helping you during your job search?

Weak Ties vs. Strong Ties

Weak ties are the people in our networks who aren’t strangers but aren’t close contacts. Nearly 17% heard about a job from a strong tie, while 28% heard about it from a weak tie. “Strong ties provide bonds, but weak ties serve as bridges: they provide more efficient access to new information,” says Adam Grant, Author and Psychologist.

Examples of Weak Ties:

• Coworker or boss from your previous job
• A neighbor
• Someone you met at a conference
• Your college roommate
• Acquaintances from the coffee shop or gym

In closing, people who are typically outside of your professional bubble have value to add to your job search: they bridge diverse communities, and that’s where the magic happens! You never know when a new connection could share the posting for your next job.

Find New Jobs

To help amplify your network, check out these articles: Five tips for people who hate networking, Easy ways to reconnect with your network, and How to tell a compelling career story.