Why networking is an important part of job hunting

Networking isn't an activity many people enjoy, but you can learn to be good at it. Here are our top tips.

Networking: A word that fills many with dread and causes some to break out in a cold sweat. But it doesn’t have to be that scary. In fact, it's often life changing and important. (It’s how I, like many others, got my start in the industry.)

Mining careers aren’t built in conference rooms by swapping business cards. They’re built on site, in crib rooms, and over conversations with people who remember your name.

But why is networking for mining jobs so important?

Why networking matters when looking for a mining job

It’s about making connections, building relationships and keeping your career visible. Face-to-face events are a unique opportunity to make a lasting impression on people you’d like to get to know, opening up the possibility of a new job. They also give you a chance to learn about new projects in your industry.

You can even get business advice or career tips on how to find a mining job. And as the saying goes, it’s not what you know, but who you know. The best time to build your network is before you need it. But it’s not about knowing the right people to get a job handed to you. It’s about making sure the right people know what you can do

While we tend to think of networking as a formal event with a room full of strangers with name badges pinned to their shirts, it's not always the case.

For example, a few weeks ago I was at the local park walking my dog and talking casually to a group of neighbours I see often. Among them were a site supervisor, a personal assistant and an accountant.

Two of the three work in mining. I had no idea about this until we started a conversation about work. You never know whom or what might present themselves once you get chatting to people.

However, if you do find yourself attending a formal networking event, and you’re not exactly an aficionado, here are some simple tips that will come in handy:

Mentally preparing for a mining networking event

Be prepared to chat about yourself and work matters. Most of us aren’t terribly comfortable with this but practice speaking about yourself, your background and your interests. Think about the types of roles you've worked in, the sites you've been on, the equipment you've operated, and the types of projects you've helped on.  This might help jog your memory at the actual event.

Make networking easier by arriving early

This is an effective strategy because there will be fewer people at the beginning of the event and everyone will be eager to meet a friendly face. If you arrive when there is a room full of people, it will be much harder to approach others. Remember: The first person you speak to will often feel the hardest. After that, the room becomes much easier. 

Start small and let conversations grow

You can get an idea of who is coming in and if they’ll be useful to talk to in-depth later on. This is also good for shy people who are nervous at the thought of intruding on a group of people who are already engrossed in conversation. Start with one conversation, and see how it goes from there. Your goal shouldn't be to work the room. Fewer meaningful conversations are far better than twenty rushed chats.

Listen before you talk about your mining experience

Meeting new people can be nerve-racking. The task of simply remembering their name can be challenging, let alone carrying on an interesting conversation. It’s better to be engaged with what the person is saying, showing interest, and thinking of possible follow-up questions or details they could expand on. If you don’t remember their name, you can always politely ask their name again as you say goodbye or ask for their business card.

Networking isn’t about asking people for jobs. It’s about making sure opportunities can find their way to you.

If you're looking for any further advice, get in touch and one of our consultants will get back to you. 

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