Building a strong reputation and network has always been considered important career advice, but in today’s highly competitive job market, it has become even more crucial. It can often be the factor that determines whether you secure or miss out on a job opportunity.
Advaita Naidoo, Managing Director of Jack Hammer, an executive search firm in Africa, highlights this shift in the recruitment landscape. According to Naidoo, the traditional methods of job hunting, such as submitting resumes and applying through social media, are no longer as effective as they once were. This change makes cultivating a powerful professional reputation and network even more essential.
While exact statistics on the number of job applications per vacancy in South Africa may not be readily accessible, an analysis of job listings on LinkedIn indicates that thousands of candidates often apply for a single job posting.
Naidoo points out that in such a competitive job market, qualifications and experience alone are not enough to set you apart. Even with a perfect CV, strong AI-driven keywords, and an attractive online presence, many of your competitors will have similar qualifications. What truly sets you apart is your reputation and network.
With the oversaturation of traditional job boards, relationship-building has become an even more important factor in landing a job. Past negative interactions or damaged relationships can easily eliminate you from consideration, especially since social media makes it easier for hiring managers to connect the dots and see your professional history.
“One of the first things hiring managers will do, once your application is under review, is look at your online presence,” Naidoo explains. “They’ll not only assess your professional conduct but also check for mutual connections. More often than not, they will find shared contacts much quicker than you might expect, which can influence their decision.”
Historically, individuals were cautious about not burning bridges with senior colleagues or clients, but sometimes neglected to show the same consideration for peers or less senior staff. Today, Naidoo emphasizes that everyone, regardless of their position, plays an important role in your career development. How you interact with people at all levels can have a significant impact on your future.
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“Building and nurturing professional relationships today can shape your career more than it ever has in the past,” Naidoo stresses. “Every interaction, whether with a colleague or a client, can either open or close doors depending on how it was handled. Even minor exchanges can have a lasting effect on your career.”
Professional networks are now more important than ever in finding job opportunities. Personal connections and referrals are becoming essential in securing interviews, which is why it is crucial to engage with others in your network in a way that reflects your future potential.
“Regardless of your position, always treat everyone with dignity and integrity,” Naidoo concludes. “How you treat people today could influence the opportunities you have in the future.”
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