Your Next Job Opportunity Might Be Found In An Unlikely Place

Slack is known for being used as a communication tool in the workplace. You may use it to communicate with colleagues or discuss ongoing projects with your boss. While the app was originally built for exchanging and keeping up with team members, it is now being utilized in other ways. The app is also used for networking, finding new jobs and building community. (Subscribe to the Her Agenda Community here). There are many ways to use Slack, including in the ways discussed below.

To start, first think of the industry that you would like to work in. From there you can use Twitter or other social sites to find Slack communities. For example, you could search, “Slack engineering,” and see what pop ups.

Slack can be a great networking tool. When on the app, you can meet people in your industry or industries related to yours. Even if they aren’t a hiring manager or a recruiter, you should never underestimate the power of a connection. Networking can be a great way to meet mentors or those who can help you. By using apps such as Slack, you can build relationships with people who you might never meet in person. Or, they could even become your future boss, or a reference into a company. In order to network on Slack, make sure you participate in the conversation. The more you join in, the more likely you are to meet others who can guide you on your career path.

Slack can also be great for finding community. If you have ever thought to yourself, “Wow I wish my friends and I had the same goals,” Slack can be offer opportunities to expand your network with professionals who have similar aspirations. For example, Her Agenda has the INSIDER community where millennial women professionals and entrepreneurs can connect on Slack and find mentorship and guidance. By joining, you can chat with other women who will help you on your path to success, personal achievement and growth.

There are tons of other communities out there, and if you do some digging, you will find one perfect for you.

If you are looking for a new job or internship, you might immediately think of sites such as LinkedIn, but Slack can be a great tool for finding work, too. After joining a few networks, and interacting with the group, you might just meet others looking to hire. Sometimes there are even channels dedicated to job postings.

This takes us back to networking, in order to better your chances of finding work through Slack, make sure you interact with the chat often. Just think, what if those hiring for your dream role see your name pop up again and again. Chances are if you can stand out in a good way, snagging that opportunity will be that much easier.

You can also use Slack to gain knowledge within your industry. By participating in the chat you can learn valuable skills, or gain insight about what is happening within your field. What issues are industry leaders facing? What trends are taking place? Gaining insight can be helpful for when you are in an interview, or when you are asked questions that you otherwise wouldn’t have the answers to.