5 NETWORKING TIPS FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS AND WHY THEY WORK

 Networking takes many different forms both online and off. Check out these five networking tips for young professionals and why they will help you make better connections.

There is more than just creating accounts and going to events. You will get the best results by coming up with an appropriate goal, attitude and strategy. In the Buffer survey, 72 percent of respondents worked for a company that allowed or planned to allow at least some degree of remote working. Whether you're online or offline, the same rules will always apply to meeting new people and getting a job. To prepare yourself, see if you can implement these five network building tips.

CAST A WIDE NET

Young professionals have more communication experience than ever before. Many of us learn how to communicate in college, and these connections can form a solid foundation for building your circle.Then, it's time to get creative. The more variety of people you communicate with, the better. There are often unexpected ways people in a department or industry can help others, and being able to help different people will show how well you can use your skills.

KNOW YOUR ELEVATOR PITCH

In a busy networking event full of people to talk to, you don't want to take too long to introduce yourself. If you aren't sure what to say to introduce who you are and what you do, potential connections won't understand how you could help them.

When you build your virtual network, you'll slowly develop a simplified, concise image of yourself and what you have to offer. You'll have to be efficient with your words when networking online, but the same principles often work in conversation. For a few tips on describing yourself quickly in 30 seconds or less:

• Write down the three basics: who you are, what you do, and how you do it.
• Write the unique results of your work or traits of your personality that set you apart.
• Organize both of the above into one paragraph.
• Record yourself delivering the paragraph at a natural talking speed.
• Edit the pitch, catch any flubs, and try again until you have an effective pitch memorized.

FOLLOW UP AFTER GOOD CONVERSATIONS

If you meet anyone who seems promising for a future deal, project, or opportunity, save their contact info and a few fresh notes about the conversation. If you have the funny thing you talked about with your potential new boss written down on their business card, mentioning it again during your next conversation will help them remember you and why they liked you.

There are different windows to follow up, and job hunting sites like CareerBuilder can help you create a profile so employers can find you. When you get contacted, respond fairly soon and feel free to follow up after a few days if you don't get a reply. People can be busy, so they may have simply forgotten to get back to you.

RECALIBRATE EVERY NOW AND THEN

There's no shortage of massive networks full of communities that may be relevant to your work. With so many options, young professionals can lose sight of what's actually working. Every so often, take inventory of which networking tasks you are spending time on, how much time you give to each task in the week, and how much progress or payoff you're getting for them.

Maybe answering comments on a social site, for example, could get trimmed down to half as much time, in exchange for more time spent with video conference networking. Maybe instead of stressing yourself out with following new accounts, you devote more time to talking with your current people. Don't forget how flexible the remote work life can be, because how you network is always in your control.

BE A GIVER OF VALUE

This old marketing line has stuck around for a reason. Online, in a world of quick, cynical impressions, those who appear to genuinely offer something of value will stand out the most. Whether starting new connections or following up with a project idea, start conversations about the other person's needs and goals.

When in doubt, it doesn't hurt to just ask, "How can I help with what you're doing?" You'll often get something back in the spirit of reciprocity. Later, as you build familiarity and experience in a company, you'll benefit from being a connector, someone who can help others network by making referrals and introductions.

Growing an online professional network doesn't have to be scary or inconvenient. If you give it time, stay real, and keep practicing, you can find a few new connections that end up transforming your career in the coming months. Try these networking tips and stay at the front of the crowd.

Why was my CV rejected?

IF YOU WONDER WHY YOUR WORK APPLICATIONS STILL BE REFUSED, ONLY ONE FACTOR COULD MAKE A DIFFERENCE. HERE ARE SEVEN REASONS WHY IT SHOULD BE REFUSED.

Your resume can connect you with employers, but not if it gets blocked, filtered, or kicked out. Most of the resumes sent to job applications are not read, simply due to the high number of applicants. For those that get scrutinized, typos, formatting issues, or unwanted additions disqualify many at a glance. However, some reasons why these forms are sidelined or filtered from reaching an employer may surprise you. Let's look at some of the most likely reasons why your resume isn't seen.

A BOT REFUSES THE CV

When you upload a resume and start sending it to companies, many of them use software that could filter it out. Bots can work in a number of ways, and the problem is that they can potentially falsely flag a legitimately valid resume for things like plagiarism, bad formatting, and more without justification. This means that instead of being rejected in advance, your resume may be redirected and never seen.

Getting the exact format is a big step towards avoiding shooting robots. This includes the file type, so be sure to follow everything specified in the post. Don't put anything unusual in the header and try to keep a reasonable balance of useful skills. Some bots will detect resumes that use the same skill lists as those found in online sample resumes, so it's helpful to search for yours and see if it's similar in any way.

IT'S TOO LONG OR IT'S NOT REACHING KEY INFORMATION SOON

How long is too long? The most common standard in the entire market is around two pages, while a three-page limit might be logical for more advanced positions. No matter how long or short, the most important information should be as early as possible, so stick to the skills and work history most relevant to the job in question.

MANY FLUFF OR CLICK TERMS

Many terms become boring after a while or lose their meaning. For example, being self-motivated sounds good on paper, but what does it really mean to simply have motivation? This is the risk with common buzzwords and phrases such as team player, dynamic skills, or driving to results. You can often communicate these ideas with stories of your workplace achievements. So instead of listing concepts like being a "go-getter" as a skill, stick to listing the skills that create a clear picture of you doing the job.

UNWANTED SECTIONS OR IMAGES

Personal graphics, charts, and images are usually not in demand or considered a good addition to a resume, along with hobbies, your age, or a conclusion. The format for an effective resume or CV is pretty tight and going too long or adding something like a logo could cause a bot to filter it out. It's not worth the risk if these uncommon elements don't make you stand out effectively, even if your resume goes through the filter. If in doubt about what to include on a resume, always follow the directions in the job posting.

Typos or grammar errors

This type of resume problem can creep into the best of us, but that doesn't mean you can slow down your language and spelling. About 77% of hiring managers disqualify a resume after noticing grammatical errors or typos. It is common to customize resumes for each job you are applying for, and a misspelled word or missing space may be among all these changes. Grammar software can help with common mistakes, and if you want to be sure, you could even hire a resume proofreader.

THE RELEVANT WORK HISTORY IS NOT CLEARLY PRESENTED

This is one of the problems with creating a general resume instead of adapting it to each job application. Many job stories that cover too much end up obfuscating which parts are relevant to the job you are applying for. Some bots can discount resumes if they don't detect a sufficiently recent work history, which may be unavoidable if you have a gap in your work history. Other times, you may need to make cuts to help the hiring manager get a quick and concise idea of ​​your potential.

AN EMAIL ADDRESS OR NON-PROFESSIONAL DELIVERY

Sometimes the problem isn't so much the resume as where it comes from. If you have an email address that was created in connection with a joke or one that is clearly used for personal life, it can damage your image as a serious candidate.

@10 Jobs That Hire Older Workers

Explore types of employment that are looking for older workers.

The Great Resignation may bring good news for jobseekers over age 50: Many companies are actively seeking new workers and are willing to offer flexible, accommodating schedules. When making hiring decisions, many employers particularly value skills and experience, according to a 2021 AARP survey of human resources employees. Companies particularly value workers who are 50 or older for their professionalism and problem solving skills, the survey found.

Some of the jobs that are recruiting seniors include:

• Customer service agent.
• Companion to those in need.
• Event usher or attendant.
• Grocery store greeter or clerk.
• Home mortgage underwriter.
• On-demand driver.
• Real estate agent.
• Temporary office worker.
• Tour guide.
• Tutor.

Here’s a breakdown of the jobs that are actively seeking seniors.

Customer Service Agent

For those who have extensive experience working with people, along with an eye for etiquette, helping customers work through different scenarios and fulfilling their requests might be a solid fit. As commerce moves increasingly online, there is a need for workers to be able to get on the phone or chat online to discuss orders with clients. Technology presents another perk: Many of these positions have moved to a remote setting, meaning you can take calls from the comfortable chair in your living room.

Median pay: $17 an hour

Companion to Those in Need

If you have a passion for helping others, sitting beside aging adults in a care facility could generate a sense of purpose. You might play games with an elderly individual, take them on a walk or read to them. Households that have a family member with a disability might also be looking for an extra set of hands. To find a part-time position, ask at local senior facilities or contact support groups.

Median pay: $13 an hour

Event Usher or Attendant

If you get a thrill from live performances or enjoy being involved in entertainment, a job at a local auditorium or theater could bring multiple benefits. In addition to accepting tickets and directing attendees to their seat, you’ll catch glimpses of the performances taking place. You might even review the events and suggest future happenings. The pay may not be as high as what you’ll find in other positions, but the performance perks could make up for it.

Median pay: $12 an hour

Grocery Store Greeter or Clerk

If you enjoy interacting with a variety of customers, getting involved at a local supermarket could bring in extra cash and a chance to chat. Some grocery stores offer discounts to their workers, and many are looking to fill positions at the door and the checkout counter. For places with self-checkout, your job may cater toward monitoring shoppers and jumping in when someone has a question about an item or transaction.

Median pay: $12 an hour

Home Mortgage Underwriter

For those with a bachelor’s degree and the necessary certifications, underwriting can be a great way to generate income and stay active. Companies value reliable, hardworking employees in this area who can carry out a detailed background check and be thorough in their work. You might have the chance to set your own hours and work remotely.

Median pay: $31 an hour

On-Demand Driver

If you have a qualifying vehicle and license and appreciate the chance to chat and connect with others, you might consider driving for a ride service like Uber or Lyft. Food delivery is another way to make use of your car. You’ll need to keep the interior and exterior of the vehicle in good shape and cover some expenses like fuel. In many instances the hours are flexible and you can work as little or as much as you like during hours that are convenient.

Median pay: $17 an hour

Real Estate Agent

Newcomers looking for a place to buy and individuals who want to sell will likely appreciate the steadfast voice of someone who has life experience. Look into state requirements for licensing before you begin. Once you are eligible, you will get a chance to stay active, communicate with others, help clients during their transitions and set your own hours.

Median pay: $25 an hour

Temporary Office Worker

As employers design hybrid working environments, they’re looking for reliable workers to help fill in the gaps. If you take on a temporary position, you might work in a building, at home or both. A temporary arrangement gives you a chance to bring in some extra cash during a set time, and if the position becomes permanent you can consider extending your stay. Ask about benefits and work-from-home versus work-from-office expectations when applying.

Median pay: $17 an hour

Tour Guide

As tourism picks up in some places and organizations look to fill positions that were dropped or paused due to the pandemic, your insight about local destinations could be put to good use. These jobs typically come with the chance to walk regularly, interact with visitors and reap the rewards of helping others learn about a new place. Start with what you know best and look for part-time or seasonal positions in your area.

Median pay: $14 an hour

Tutor

Many students are looking for direction as they prepare for tests like the SAT, ACT and other exams. Lean on your background and area of expertise when setting up tutoring arrangements. While some students may prefer to meet in person, others could be open to video conferences.

Median pay: $20 an hour