It’s hard to get by these days if you don’t have a steady job. Despite the high demand for employees in many areas, it’s still possible to struggle to find a job. That’s where networking tools come in handy. Using the right networking tools effectively can make it a lot easier to find a job. So which ones should you be using?

Business Cards

Business cards can be a great way to get your name out there. They’re small, very portable, and make it easy for people to get in touch with you (as long as you have the right information on your business card). When designing a business card, pay attention to the colors and fonts you use. Keep it simple and try to make it relevant to the industry you’re interested in. Remember to follow up with the connections you make with your business cards at a later date.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is one of the most popular job-related social networking platforms. You can use it like a live resume, updating your skills and job experience as you go. Once you have your profile set up, start using it to build connections. LinkedIn groups help you connect with others in your specific industry. Build your presence by sharing insights and information. Remember to engage with what others post as well. That two-way communication and give-and-take will be crucial in helping you develop a network that you can leverage to find a new job.

Social Media Profiles

LinkedIn isn’t the only form of social media you can use to network and find a job. You can use social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and more to start putting some feelers out. Start by letting people know you’re looking for a job. Someone in your social media network may see your post and have a job opening or know of one that you can apply for. Some businesses may also post job listings on social media, so keep an eye out for those as well.

When you need to land a job, don’t discount how much the right networking tools can help you. If you don’t have much of a network yet, work on developing one. Go to job fairs and attend community events. Volunteer your time and build relationships with others. Remember, to build your network, it helps to be someone other people want in their networks. Think about what you have to offer others and focus on that as much as you can.

Did you enjoy this article? Here’s more to read: What Your Goals Should Be During the Interview Process