In many cases, knowing the right person or having the right connection can be the best way to get your foot in the door. Networking with the right people has the power to move your name to the top of the list and get you the job. However, networking can be a tedious and sometimes overwhelming task. Here are some tips to help you manage the process and focus your efforts.
1. NEVER ask for a job. Networking is not about getting a job, it’s about getting advice or information. Obviously your end goal is to land a job, but you don’t want to turn off any of your contacts by immediately asking them for help finding it. They’ll send you directly to human resources, and that will be the end of your connection with them. Hopefully the contact will eventually offer to help you find an opportunity, but you need to take the right steps to lead up to this result.
2. Don’t ask for too much. When contacting people, only ask for a few minutes of their time. Respect the fact that they have plenty of other (possibly more important) things they could be doing. If you ask for more, they may say they don’t have the time to talk with you. You don’t want to lose a contact simply because you asked for too much of their time.
3. Set goals before you network. Do some research before you contact someone: What’s their position? Where else have they worked in the past? What advice may they be able to offer? Once you know what type of information you want, you’re ready to reach out to them.
4. Ask open-ended questions. A yes or no question will quickly end a conversation. The more they’re able to elaborate, the more useful information they’ll share. It’s possible they may answer questions you didn’t think to ask.
5. Show your gratitude. Always send a thank-you after talking with a networking contact and continue to follow-up with them. They may not offer to help you find a job opportunity today, but they could know of something in a few weeks if you stay in touch.
What other tips have helped you network before?
