#JobNetworking : 5 Unconventional Networking Tactics That Actually Work. Note: Over 87% Jobs are Found thru Networking. Great Read.

Building connections can be challenging, especially if you’re just starting your job hunt or trying to expand your professional circle. The numbers tell the story: a 2021 study revealed that personal and professional networks decreased by 16%, which reflects the growing difficulty many experience.

Let’s face it—networking is often easier said than done. Your typical events can feel faked and forced, making it hard to find genuine conversations. Why not shake things up by exploring outside the usual? Here’s a rundown of five inventive strategies for growing your network, especially if conventional methods aren’t your style.

Check Out Niche Social Media Groups

Although social media itself isn’t new, many platforms now feature niche groups that can open doors for networking. You can create genuine connections in smaller, more specialized communities on Reddit, Discord, and Facebook Groups by answering questions, offering to help, and sharing your thoughts. Furthermore, this can help show your value and establish you as a trusted community member.

Adding interactive micro-content to your social media posts, such as polls on Instagram Stories or LinkedIn, is another approach to elevate your networking. These are fantastic for sparking more active and personal conversations. Also, try jumping into Twitter chats or even hosting your own. These live, topic-driven discussions are a great way to demonstrate your expertise and connect with people who share your interests.

Keep Learning

Continuing education offers plenty of opportunities for lasting connections. Whether you’re taking a course, attending a webinar, or participating in a workshop, these learning activities bring together people with a common goal of expanding their knowledge. You can build strong relationships with others while discussing, working on projects, and solving problems.

These connections go beyond the classroom and offer new perspectives, potential collaborations, and mutual support. Aside from networking, continuing education keeps you updated on the latest industry trends and skills, strengthening your position in your professional community.

You can start by figuring out what you’re into or what skills you want to learn. Look for relevant classes, workshops, or conferences through professional groups, community organizations, or platforms such as Coursera, Eventbrite, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning. Don’t just observe—get involved! Ask questions, participate in discussions, and connect with new people.

Engage Others Through Your Content

Instead of always looking for connections, try making content that attracts people. Creating short articles or sharing insights on hot topics in your industry can get attention and grow your network. You don’t have to be a professional writer—just somebody who knows their stuff and can articulate it effectively. Putting out valuable content can start many interactions and help people remember you.

Begin by figuring out what issues or trends your audience cares about. Then, create content that provides solutions or fresh insights. Share it on LinkedIn, Medium, or your blog, and promote it on your social channels. Engage with people who comment or share your posts, turning those into meaningful conversations. You can develop an organic network built around your expertise by consistently following these steps.

Explore Other Circles

If events within your industry are starting to feel bland, it may be time to look into similar or altogether unrelated fields. Going beyond your usual circle can help you develop fresh ideas and get those creative juices flowing. You might learn new methods, strategies, or concepts that give you a competitive advantage.

Networking at these events can lead to unique partnerships. You might meet someone with skills that complement your own, opening up opportunities for really cool collaborations that neither of you would have explored on your own.

When you get out there and mingle, you’ll also meet experts with different backgrounds and viewpoints, helping you broaden your horizons. For instance, a marketing strategist might gain new insights by attending an event on data analytics, or a product designer could find inspiration at a conference focused on behavioral psychology.

Volunteer Strategically

Supporting a cause comes with some fantastic benefits. First off, giving back to a community or organization that matters to you is rewarding in and of itself. Plus, many leaders engage in community work through charities, making it a fantastic way to meet other driven individuals aligned with your values and passion.

Some employers also view extensive community involvement positively on resumes. In fact, a study by Deloitte found that 82% of those involved in hiring said that listing volunteer experience in a resume makes it more appealing. Even if you aren’t actively networking, mentioning your volunteer work on your resume or portfolio can help you improve your professional image.

To make the most of volunteering, pick a nonprofit or cause that aligns with your ideals and interests. Consider offering your time or professional expertise to support their mission. For instance, many small organizations could use a hand with event planning, bookkeeping, social media, or IT.

As you become more involved, joining committees and boards is the next step in improving your networking game. Sometimes, you might need an invite, but you’ll get noticed if you put in the work and build relationships.

Networking doesn’t have to be by the traditional playbook. You can foster professional relationships anywhere, and these creative strategies can make it more exciting. By thinking outside the box, you can turn your professional connections into meaningful relationships and find new avenues for growth and fulfillment in your career and personal life.

Forbes.com | August 21, 2024 | Sho Dewan