In today’s hyper-connected global economy, networking has become a critical skill for job seekers aiming to stand out. With remote work growing by 159% since 2009, and the international job market expanding, the ability to network effectively across borders is more crucial than ever. You will be surprised but as many as 85% of jobs are filled through networking, making it a vital tool for anyone navigating today’s job market.
In this post, we’ll explore why networking is essential in global markets and offer six useful tips to help you build connections and open doors to new opportunities.
Why Networking is Important in Global Markets:
🤫 Access to hidden job opportunities:
Research shows that 60-70% of job openings are part of the “hidden job market,” meaning they are not advertised publicly and are instead filled through internal referrals or word-of-mouth within professional circles. According to a LinkedIn survey, 85% of jobs are filled through networking and personal referrals, making referrals one of the most common ways employers hire candidates. For example, global companies such as Google, Microsoft, and Deloitte have a well-known referral program where employees are encouraged to refer candidates. The companies offer bonuses for successful referrals and prioritize applications that come through internal recommendations.
🌍 Building global relationships and a global professional identity:
The more global your network, the more opportunities you’ll have across industries and countries. A diverse, international network allows you to stay informed about trends and opportunities in markets that may be inaccessible without these connections. Moreover, your professional reputation and personal brand can transcend borders, giving you credibility in multiple markets.
🤝 Establishing credibility and trust:
In many international job markets, trust is built through personal connections. Recommendations from colleagues, mentors, or recruiters in your network can vouch for your skills and professionalism, which can make a significant difference in whether a potential employer considers you. In foreign markets, where you may be less familiar with local customs, having someone in your network endorse you can be the key to breaking into that market.
6 Networking Tips for Job Seekers in Global Markets
- Research cultural differences in business etiquette
- Leverage social media and professional platforms
- Attend virtual events
- Find international communities
- Connect with alumni and former colleagues
- Build relationships with recruiters
Let’s take a closer look at each of these tips and how you can implement them:
🔎 1. Research cultural differences in business etiquette:
Networking across borders means understanding cultural nuances in professional communication. For example, what is considered professional etiquette in Germany differs vastly from norms in the U.S. In some countries, directness is appreciated, while others may place higher value on formalities and hierarchy. Therefore, research the business culture in your target markets and tailor your networking style to respect these differences. This approach will help you build stronger, more meaningful connections.
If you want to learn more about the unspoken cultural nuances in Germany, check out this blog post.
📲 2. Leverage social media and professional platforms:
Professional platforms like LinkedIn are essential for global networking. On LinkedIn, ensure your profile is optimized for the roles you seek, join international groups that align with your industry, follow the companies you are interested in working with, and interact with their content. Moreover, you might also connect with professionals who share your goals or employees from the companies you would like to work at. Listen to our recent podcast to learn more tips on networking on LinkedIn.
Additionally, consider joining region-specific professional networks that might cater more directly to your target market.
🧑💻 3. Attend virtual events:
With the rise of virtual industry conferences, webinars, and job fairs, it’s easier than ever to network globally without leaving your home. Attend these events to connect with professionals from around the world. You can find events on such websites as meetup.com, eventbrite.com, etc. Prepare in advance by researching the speakers or attendees, and make sure to follow up with new contacts afterward to keep the conversation going.
✈️ 4. Find international communities:
Many countries have organizations or networks to help expatriates and international job seekers connect with locals and other international professionals. For instance, InterNations in Germany is a global network that hosts both online forums and in-person events, allowing international professionals to network, share advice, and connect with potential employers. Similarly, in the USA, Meetup hosts several groups like “Expats in the USA,” which offer networking opportunities and support for expatriates looking to establish themselves professionally. Of course, we at CareerBee also want to help international talent, therefore, we create useful content and online events for you in our LinkedIn community.
🎓 5. Connect with alumni and former colleagues:
Alumni networks and former colleagues are often underutilized resources for job seekers, despite their significant potential. These connections can offer valuable insights into specific markets, provide referrals, and even recommend you for open positions. Employees hired through alumni or referral networks tend to stay 25% longer at their jobs. When applying for roles in foreign countries, reaching out to alumni who work in your target industry or region can give you a significant edge, helping you access hidden opportunities and build credibility.
🤝 6. Build relationships with recruiters:
Recruiters are key players in connecting job seekers with opportunities, especially in global markets. Attend networking events, job fairs, or industry conferences where recruiters are present. Approach them with a well-crafted elevator pitch that highlights your strengths and what you’re looking for. Even if they don’t have a role available immediately, building a relationship with them can pay off when future opportunities arise. If you are still unsure how to make a perfect pitch, check out this blog post.
Conclusion: Networking Tips for Job Seekers
As you can see, building a global network is crucial for accessing hidden opportunities and strengthening your professional brand. Use these tips to connect across cultures, engage with alumni, and foster relationships that can help you succeed in the international job market. Remember, networking isn’t just about finding a job—it’s about cultivating lasting professional relationships that support your career.
