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- TCI #002: Networking - The Golden Ticket to Jobs
TCI #002: Networking - The Golden Ticket to Jobs
David Elgut
May 19, 2023
Tip for the week: Stop shotgunning your resume and start networking dang it!
Read Time: 2 minutes
Are you tired of sending out hundreds of resumes and not hearing back from employers?
You're not alone - many job seekers have found themselves in the same boat, feeling like they're throwing their resumes into a black hole.
Situation: You are sitting at your computer and just received the 765th rejection email and you feel the world about to crash in; your bills are piling up and you don’t know what to do…
If you have been in this situation before, you know how demoralizing it can be. At one point or another, we all have been there.
BUT, there is something important to realize about this application style - it is an outdated application habit that typically only returns pain, frustration, and wasted time. 👎️
After sending application after application, I found the real way to actually get interviews from recruiters and hiring managers, and it was through one way that most people overlook - NETWORKING
Now, before you unsubscribe because this wasn't the "golden bullet" that you were looking for hear me out!
Taking the time to build meaningful connections with others on forums like LinkedIn, Discord, and even through attending in-person events (now that they are spinning back up post-COVID), will take you farther than simply spam applying to jobs - and even at times get you the exact job that you want with that amazing salary and benefits package.
So, here are 2 steps that I take everyday to network and gain connections with top recruiters and CISO/CEO's across the industry - it might surprise you how simple some of these are.
⭐️ 1. Find a topic you enjoy, and start posting:
Yes, posting on LinkedIn can be scary, there are many who might think your words are worthless, but forget them - this is the modern way to get your voice heard and become an expert or leader about a specific topic; but those accolades come with building trust and dedication to what you are studying.
Whether it be general cyber news, labs you’ve created, or just documenting the things you are learning; step out of your shell and start sharing your thoughts with the world.
Doing things like this shows others that you can back up the information that you store on a resume, and can explain it in a way that can communicate your thoughts clearly. This is actually something that hiring managers love to see.
Using an avenue that shows your knowledge, communication, and documentation skills can really impress others and show hiring managers that you can speak clearly about topics (especially if they are really complex).
⭐️ 2. Interact with other leaders/creators
Pick 3 to 5 influential leaders or creators in the community and make an effort to connect with them a few times a week. If they post every day, try to engage with their content daily as well. The objective is to gain visibility and establish yourself as a recognized figure within these circles.
The next step is to reach out via direct message. When reaching out, avoid sending cold messages with your resume and job requests. Instead, introduce yourself and show genuine interest in their work. Ask them about themselves and initiate a conversation.
Just focus on building a relationship first. Once a connection is established, you can kindly ask if they would be willing to provide guidance on career growth and further development based on the foundation you have already established.
Overall, break free from the outdated and ineffective method of traditional applications that lead to nowhere. Embrace proactive networking and relationship-building strategies to unlock new opportunities and propel your career forward.
If anything, remember these key points from today's newsletter:
1. Networking is key to landing a job in cybersecurity, as it can help you stand out from other candidates.
2. Instead of relying solely on your resume to get you noticed, make connections in the industry by attending events, reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn, and joining relevant online communities.
3. Take the time to build meaningful connections and showcase your skills and knowledge - before you know it, you'll be well on your way to landing the job you want.
If there are any specific topics or questions that you would like me to address in the newsletter, please feel free to reply to this email. I will be more than happy to add them to my list of upcoming topics.
Whenever you're ready, there are 2 ways I can help you:
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