Networking

Networking

Get ahead in the job market by being proactive in your job search. Build a strong network that can lead to job opportunities and support. Plan carefully and take advantage of various opportunities to meet professionals and like-minded students: 

• Join Student Societies for social and networking events. 

• Attend Careers & Enterprise Fairs and Events to connect with professionals. 

• Utilise LinkedIn to connect with people in your desired organisations. 

• Join the Salford alumni group on LinkedIn to see where graduates in your field have succeeded. 

Why students should be using LinkedIn a career tool (blog) - a student perspective.

Creative Job Searching

Uncover hidden job opportunities through creative job searching. Some companies hire internally or through personal contacts, and they may consider speculative approaches. 

Networking effectively is key to a creative job search. Gather information, exchange ideas, and raise your professional profile. By doing so, you can make valuable connections and discover unadvertised opportunities.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is your go-to professional social networking site. Join work-related groups, engage in discussions, and enhance your knowledge on various topics. 

Linkedin for Students offers valuable information and tutorials to support you during your student journey and beyond into the professional world. Check out our guide, Getting Started with LinkedIn, to create an impactful profile or attend one of our workshops.

Social Media

Don't underestimate the power of Facebook and Twitter for connecting with potential employers or your dream companies. While they are less formal than LinkedIn, these platforms are great for staying updated on an organisation's activities, events, and hiring. 

Remember, employers do check social media profiles, and they might find information you'd rather keep private. Take control of your digital identity – attend our Personal Branding Workshops for expert tips and insights.

Top Tips

1. Create a killer LinkedIn profile. Connect with professionals in your desired field and learn about their career paths and company insights. 
2. Stay in the loop by following employers on Twitter. Get updates on their news and recruitment drives. 
3. Attend Careers Fairs and Employer Talks, both internally and externally. Prepare questions, bring your CV, and make valuable contacts. Keep an eye out for Salford's own careers events. 
4. Tap into your existing network. Friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances can open unexpected doors through casual conversations. 
5. Take a proactive approach by submitting tailored CVs and cover letters to companies of interest. Make a call beforehand to find the right person to address your letter to. 
6. Explore volunteering, work placements, and shadowing opportunities. Network from within and make valuable connections. 
7. Leverage your extra-curricular activities and social groups.