A survey on career choices and transition shows that job tenureship is shrinking. On a global basis as well as in Singapore, the average job tenure has reduced from seven to six years, according to HR consulting firm DBM, which surveys professionals in transition each year.
Gone are the days of lifetime employment. Whatever the reason for switching - where, when, or how you work, statistics show that employees will find themselves in the midst of a job change at least eight times in this lifetime. What will make this inevitable event a success depends on the depth and breadth of your personal network.
Despite the growth in print and online job advertising, networking is by far the most effective way to land a new position. Every year for the last five years in Singapore, DBM’s research consistently shows networking to be the source of new jobs more than 60 per cent of the time.
People with personal and professional networks in place find the process less daunting than those who don’t have a solid contact-base. It’s always the right time to build networks – whether you are looking for a job or gainfully employed. In the hurried pace of life in Singapore, it can be easy to avoid networking but it is vital to your long-term career success.
Here are a few tips for a successful networking:
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Networking is not about asking for a job. Nor is it merely a process of passing around your resume. It is about relationship building, information sharing and making long-term career connections. Seek as much advice and information and use the opportunity to review and update your resume and address book. |
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Do your homework. Getting to know your network contacts, their companies and their industries will help to establish a relationship of substance. Scour the Internet, ask questions, read up, and gather as much information as you can. Try to maintain a 90/10 ratio of research to actual contact time. That is, for every 10 minutes spent with a contact, try to support that with up to 90 minutes of research on the contact and his or her company and industry. It will help you take charge and be a value-added contributor to the conversation. |
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Consider your personal network. Think of all the people you come into contact with on a regular basis – from your family members to your doctor – these relationships are invaluable door openers to expanding your industry network. Don’t underestimate your friends who have contacts in other industries that may be of interest to you in the future. |
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Join professional associations and become an active member. Consider joining the national or regional chapters of industry or professional groups. Membership and active involvement in an association’s activities can open the door to new job opportunities. These professional groups also provide a venue to showcase your talents and skills through various activities, projects, and presentations. |
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Join the chambers of commerce such as the British or American chambers, and professional organisations such as the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Singapore (for CPAs) or Singapore Human Resources Institute (for HR professionals). They offer many opportunities to network and meet people in various industries through monthly meetings, informal dinners and business seminars. Take the time to pro-actively seek people that will be valuable additions to your professional network. Chances are they will be able to introduce you to other relevant contacts as well. |
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