Do you already use Slack for your job search? Here's how to get the most out of it!
Artwork by: Alexandra Stupkina
- What are Slack communities?
- How to find communities on Slack
- 1. Consult your existing network
- 2. Check Slofile
- 3. Explore Standuply
- How to use Slack communities for your job search
- 1. Networking
- 2. Industry expertise
- 3. Job opportunities
- Key takeaways
Slack is rapidly becoming the place to fast-track your job hunt. If you don’t already use Slack for your job search, you may be missing out on great job opportunities. Follow our guide with expert tips to make the most out of Slack.
Looking to get ahead of the game in your job search? One way to maximize your chances of building your network and hearing about exciting new job opportunities is to leverage Slack for your job search. So, how can you get the most out of Slack?
You may have come across Slack via your workplace as a messaging app that enables you to communicate with colleagues and share files. But, you may be missing a trick if you are not maximizing Slack for networking or other job search strategies. Making the most out of Slack can lead to a great network of contacts, increased industry knowledge, connections with recruiters, and potential job opportunities.
In this article we explore:
What are Slack communities?
How do you find Slack communities?
How can you use Slack communities for your job search?
Statistical Insight
According to an article by The Wall Street Journal, Slack has become a speedy, informal way for professionals and employers to find each other. Many job seekers are turning to Slack networking communities and quickly landing new roles, with many job applications fast-tracked due to the personal connections.
What are Slack communities?
Slack communities are the equivalent of LinkedIn or Facebook groups. Each Slack community offers the opportunity to network with peers, learn industry news, and connect with hiring managers and recruiters. Opportunities not to be missed in your job search!
Slack has grown exponentially over the past few years, so it’s highly probable that you will find a community that relates directly to your demographic and industry. For example, there’s a community for Women in Technology, for online marketers there’s TrafficThinkTank, and remote workers looking to network and secure work can join Remotive.
How to find communities on Slack
So, now you know that Slack communities are out there, how can you find your tribe? Unlike LinkedIn or Facebook, you won’t receive recommendations of communities to join so you need to do a bit of digging. Here are some methods to finding communities on Slack:
1. Consult your existing network
Reach out to your existing network of contacts on LinkedIn, Twitter, Reddit, Facebook groups or any other networking-platforms you use. These contacts may be able to provide you with some insightful recommendations of great Slack communities.
2. Check Slofile
Slofile is a really useful public database that lists the most popular Slack communities by industry, language, and location. Trending communities are highlighted and for each community you can learn how they operate, view the number of members, and find out information on how to sign up.
3. Explore Standuply
Standuply is a great resource to find communities and groups you can network with. If you are a member of Slack already, you may well know about Standuply. If not, Standuply is basically one of the top Slackbots that can help you navigate Slack to your best advantage and find communities. It’s also free as part of your personal Slack profile.
Expert Tip
Find out about new and emerging industry trends and possible job opportunities by setting up keyword notifications. Go to your “Preferences” section in your Slack profile, then add relevant keywords or phrases. You will then receive alerts from any channels you are registered with.
How to use Slack communities for your job search
There are multiple ways Slack can help you build your network and support your job search. Here are some of the key reasons to maximize Slack to your best advantage:
1. Networking
Slack is an amazing networking tool. If you are a new user, you may be a bit overwhelmed at first, but taking the plunge and joining in different conversions with like-minded people will help build your confidence, and in turn, your network.
Connect with people who work in similar roles or industries, those who can deliver insight relating to your career or business, and that you can see yourself working with in the future.
2. Industry expertise
Industry knowledge is vital to your career development. Slack communities have channels that discuss hot topics, provide advice, highlight industry wins and frustrations, and showcase specialist projects. This information can help you in terms of career development and also allows you to share your knowledge and experience to assist your peers.
3. Job opportunities
Once you are established and contributing to a community, it is more likely that you will hear about potential job opportunities. In fact some Slack communities have a job-related channel, which you can join to hear about upcoming opportunities in your field.
- Introduce yourself to the community administrator and actively participate in group conversations. Just make sure you follow group rules and avoid overdoing any self-promotion.
- Judge a community by its size. While larger groups may have more reach, smaller groups may have people who may be more willing to provide support and guidance to you.
Key takeaways
Slack is a workplace communication app that is rapidly becoming a key tool in the job search and networking process.
Check with your existing network of contacts as well as Slofile and Standuply to find out about great Slack communities you can join.
Take the plunge and network with your community, share your industry expertise to help other members, and look forward to hearing about new job opportunities in your field.
