If you’ve ever struggled in finding a job, you may have been given the same piece of advice over and over: “Make sure to network.”
However, if you are new to the country, you may be focusing on acclimatizing yourself to a different culture and you may not know many people. And the idea that you should approach strangers to promote yourself as a professional is nerve-wracking, especially if you are still struggling with the English language.
Understandably, the prospect of networking may seem daunting, but with a few tips, you will realize that it doesn’t have to be scary. Instead, you learn that networking is rewarding and, maybe, even fun.
First things first, remember that networking doesn’t mean introducing yourself and then asking for favours or demanding to be hired.
Networking is about creating connections, sharing mutual interests and exchanging information.
Without thinking about your goal of getting that dream job or a new client, get to know the people you meet at networking events or organizations on a more personal level. Just talk to them. Be friendly and ask questions. Make yourself into a pleasant person and pay attention to how people respond.
By approaching people in a friendly way and leaving people with positive impressions of yourself, you are more likely to then create a bond that will lead to a job or more business.
Attend workshops, seminars, job fairs, meet-ups and even activity groups to build that network. It will also familiarize you with Canadian culture and customs and perhaps lead to some valuable friendships. And meeting new people is key to success as you never know when that quick coffee chat will turn into a dream job.
Any event or activity that interests you or aligns with your career goals can be the perfect opportunity to meet new people.
In the Ottawa Valley, there are no official networking groups specifically for immigrants, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t opportunities for you to network.
There are specific events and activities designed for networking. These can be found in local newspapers, on billboards, on posting boards, through word of mouth or online through websites like Eventbrite and social media.
Don’t know where to start?
Join a Professional Association
In both Renfrew and Lanark County, there are professional associations tailored to help those on the same career path. Some are specifically for those living in the Ottawa Valley, while other associations are country-wide. The benefits of joining a professional association vary, and it is obligatory to join an association to practice for certain careers. So, it is always a good idea to check for any local professional association. To find a professional group near you, google your career title and location. If one exists, it will pop up.
Network on Social Media
If you have the right online presence, you may be able to snag yourself a job without even leaving the house. Revamp your social media and use them effectively. By rebranding yourself online, you create a persona perfect for networking. Linkedin is the perfect platform to showcase yourself and reach out to people.
If you are a business owner, professional, entrepreneur or aiming to become any of the above, the UOVCC is a great bet. Its mission is to support businesses, communities and entrepreneurs to succeed through leadership, education, advocacy, communication, networking and financial benefits. There is a fee to join the group, but they offer many opportunities to grow, including relevant, engaging and timely workshops and seminars that support its members’ professional development and skills potential.
Like the UOVCC, the PDCC’s mission is to help professionals and business owners grow their careers. The members join together to promote their communities’ civic, commercial and industrial progress. With a membership, you have networking opportunities, visibility, learning opportunities, special savings and a voice to change the business community’s landscape.
The RACC gives a voice to businesses and entrepreneurs within their area. It has a focus on advocacy, education and networking. By joining this group, it can help connect you to prominent, successful businesses and organizations.
With the willingness to put yourself out there and the ability to look for the right opportunities, you will become a networking champ in no time.
