Networking is one of the best ways to increase your chances of getting an actuarial job, but it’s overlooked by most future actuaries!
It’s a huge opportunity to connect with actuarial professionals and recruiters, so you can build relationships that will help you get hired later.
Future actuaries like you are doing everything they can to get hired, but they often miss this crucial step. Let’s make sure that doesn’t happen to you.
Here’s everything you need to know!
Do Actuaries NEED to Network?
If there’s one skill future actuaries should start working on right off the bat, it’s…
✨NETWORKING!✨
Now, if you’re an introvert like me, that word might strike fear into your heart.
I get it! But unfortunately, networking is super important, even for introverts like us.
- There are tons of misunderstandings about networking in the actuarial field, like…
- “Actuaries are introverts, so networking won’t get you anywhere.”
- “All that really matters is having exams passed, so I don’t need a network.”
- “I’ve added my coworkers on LinkedIn, so I’ve done enough.”
Unfortunately, these are all 100% FALSE!
You might be surprised to hear that you can’t just skip networking by passing a bunch of exams.
After all, that’s what employers care about, right?
That’s actually not true! Networking can unlock opportunities that you never would’ve had access to otherwise, helping you get hired quicker and easier.
Here’s how it works!
Uncover the Hidden Job Market
Did you know that a whopping 50% of actuarial jobs aren’t posted publicly?
Yes! Future actuaries who don’t network miss out on HUGE opportunities, because half of the job market relies on your connections!
By tapping into your network, whether through friends, friends of friends, or former colleagues, you enlist advocates to spread the word on YOUR behalf. This helps your resume bypass the competitive frenzy of public job postings, and land directly in the hands of actuarial recruiters.
What’s even better is that recruiters are more likely to hire their connections than the average applicant.
Why? Because there’s already a sense of TRUST even before you submit your application. After all, they already know you through your online interactions and profile!
That’s why I highly recommend that future actuaries build their network as early as possible, because developing trust takes time.
And once it’s established, watch how fast you can get that internship or entry-level actuarial position!
So, how do you go about building your network?
Attend Actuarial Events
If you want to grow your network in-person, you’ve got to attend actuarial events!
- Some events you might attend as a future actuary are:
- Actuarial job fairs
- Conferences
- Actuarial webinars, trainings, and workshops
- Symposiums
By attending these events, you can build relationships with your fellow future actuaries, professionals, and even with recruiters!
But networking involves more than just making an impression—it’s about cultivating genuine professional relationships. These connections foster trust and confidence, which will eventually lead them to advocate for you or vouch for your abilities.
So how do you build a connection like that?
The easiest way is to ensure you have repeat contact with them, so they can get familiar with you and your skills.
That’s why I recommend asking employers if they would be willing to connect with you on LinkedIn after chatting with them in person.
It sets you up to have repeated contact with an employer or industry professional, so you can build a solid connection over time.
Speaking of… how do you set up a LinkedIn profile?
Set Up Your LinkedIn Profile
A LinkedIn profile is an absolute must for anyone looking to get a job soon!
Your LinkedIn profile is your digital business card, showcasing your skills and experience to potential employers.
So, you’ve got to make it stand out and show off your best qualifications!
Here’s how:
- Profile Picture: Opt for a professional, clear headshot that exudes confidence.
- Headline: Craft a compelling headline that highlights your aspirations and unique qualifications.
- Banner: Personalize your banner to reflect your personality and make you stand out from the crowd.
- Custom URL: Customize your profile’s URL for easy sharing and to make it look more professional.
Remember, your LinkedIn profile is often your first impression on recruiters and hiring managers, so make it count!
Start Connecting
Now that your LinkedIn profile is optimized, it’s time to put it to use.
- Identify companies and professionals in the actuarial field that align with your career goals. Watch this short video outlining 5 criteria to use!
- Reach out to hiring managers and current actuaries within those organizations, expressing your interest and eagerness to learn.
- Leverage the power of your network to uncover hidden job opportunities and get hired quicker!
Conclusion
Networking isn’t just a business buzzword. A strong network can help you get your first internship or entry-level actuarial job faster than you expect.
Remember, 50% of actuarial jobs aren’t posted online, so having access to this hidden market gives you a HUGE advantage in this competitive field.
Networking is essential for breaking into your dream actuarial job. Whether it’s attending job fairs or engaging with recruiters on LinkedIn, these connections can significantly improve your chances of getting hired.
Start building your network today and discover all the hidden career opportunities you never knew about. Your actuarial career is waiting for you!