Building your reputation and network has always been solid career advice, but in today's competitive environment, this guidance has taken on new significance, as it can be a deal-maker or deal-breaker in your job search.

This is according to Advaita Naidoo, Africa MD at executive search firm Jack Hammer.

"The traditional CV submission and social media job search process is in disarray, which means that the cultivation of a strong network and stellar professional reputation that precedes you is more important than ever," Naidoo said.

Although high-level statistics on the number of applications employers typically receive per vacancy in South Africa are not readily available, an analysis of LinkedIn’s applicant counts for job listings reveals that thousands of applications are submitted for each advertised position.

Naidoo said: "Within this context of your application having to compete with thousands of other applications, you need more in your arsenal than qualifications and experience. Your AI keywords can be on point, your CV flawless and your online presentation attractive – but most of your competition for any given role will boast the same."

This is where your reputation good or bad and networks make the difference.

Due to the traditional job boards becoming less effective because they are oversaturated, your efforts in building relationships are important.

The relationship bridges that you have burnt in the past will get you eliminated from the start, and with social media, it is easier for hiring managers to connect the dots.

"One of the first things hiring managers will do (assuming your application reached their desk), is to have a look at your online presence," Naidoo said.

"Apart from the issue of professional online conduct, they will also look for connections. Who do you and the manager or company have in common? Chances are they will find something far sooner than six degrees of separation, and therein lies the rub."

In the past, individuals would be careful not to burn bridges with more senior colleagues, managers or clients, while not always taking the same care for their peers, less senior colleagues, or others they come into contact with.

Today, anyone serious about their career must consider their entire ecosystem, Naidoo says.

Any wrong actions can have consequences down the line, and anyone you may have dealt with in the past can have an impact on your future prospects.

Naidoo said: "It is therefore important to understand that building and maintaining professional relationships can significantly impact your career trajectory significantly more than in the past."

"Every interaction counts, from colleagues to clients, as these connections can open doors or close them based on past experiences. Being mindful of how you treat others in your professional ecosystem is crucial, as even seemingly minor interactions can have long-lasting implications."

People are relying on their professional networks more than ever to source their next job.

Referrals and personal connections are becoming increasingly important to land interviews, therefore you must always conduct yourself as if the people you are engaging with will be in your ecosystem some time in the future.

"Treat everyone professionally, with dignity and integrity, regardless of which table you are sitting at," Naidoo said.

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