How do I actively network for new opportunities without jeopardizing my current job?

Anonymous

August 21,2023 at 3:09PM UTC

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How do I actively network for new opportunities without jeopardizing my current job?

I enjoy my job, but the company I’m with is poorly managed and doesn’t want to invest in its own growth. The CEO is tyrannical, and fear of his tantrums trickles into every single department.

I’m not sure how much longer I can walk on eggshells around the CEO, or put up with archaic systems that break and cause multiple issues.

I’m ready to walk, but financially I can’t afford to do so. I’ve invested as much time into my job search as I reasonably can without impacting my current job responsibilities, without so much as an interview request.

I know that the best way to find a new job is through networking and personal referrals, but I don’t know anyone in my city/industry that could refer me without it potentially getting back to my boss. What are your suggestions for actively networking and getting referrals while being discreet?

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AnonymousAugust 21,2023 at 7:33PM UTC
Have you tried MeetUp or LinkedIn? They both have groups of all sorts of things. Spend some time on LI.
Denise BrowningAugust 22,2023 at 2:36PM UTC
Are there any professional organizations with local chapters near you? This is the easy way in my field to develop a network. Conferences, organizations to promote women?
AnonymousAugust 23,2023 at 2:37AM UTC
Find a recruiter that will find a good fit and that is willing to keep it private until you’re ready to leap.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistAugust 25,2023 at 7:01AM UTC
Networking is great. Referrals are awesome. But applying absolutely works too. Almost 100% of the positions I've filled in the last 2 years have been from people who either applied or who I sourced.
I think ONE was from networking or referrals. Every company had a referral bonus program in place and I also ask for referrals. The number of referrals that were hires throughout a 20+ year recruiting career is also very small.
If companies were able to fill the majority of their positions by networking, they would not need to employ the teams of recruiters and sourcers and outside agencies who spend all day, every day working to fill their positions.
If you're getting no responses to your applications, it's either your resume or the positions you're applying to - or both.