Taking Action
What Do I Do with My Network?
- Inform your network that you are searching for job opportunities.
- Be specific about your interest in a particular type of job or career field.
- If you are not sure of the field, at least tell them the types of skills and abilities you want to use on the job (writing reports, presentations, etc.).
- Ask if they know of anyone who may be aware of openings.
- If they do, request to use their name when contacting the new person.
- Request that you exchange contact information and ask if you can stay connected.
- Send a thank you note
Should I Only Contact People I Know?
- No. Focus on increasing the size of your network.
- Contact employers directly.
- Target a number of employers who may hire someone with your talents and skills.
- Use CareerShift, a database of national and international organizations.
- In addition to information about the organization, you will also get links to key people, the organization’s LinkedIn profile, and jobs at the organization.
- Identify specific individuals to contact (e.g. a recruiter, human resource person, or someone working in your area of interest).
- Connect with alumni and your relevant groups on LinkedIn, utilize CareerShift, and follow potential employers on Twitter.
Once I Target the Appropriate Person, then What?
- A message of introduction followed by a phone call to the contact person is the best way to ask about discussing your career situation.
- Succinctly explain why you are calling or writing.
- If you are being referred by someone else, mention their name.
- Be polite and professional to everyone.
- Always be up front with the people you contact.
- If you are asking for an appointment with someone because you are seeking job search "advice”, don't try to get them to hire you.
- If you want to explore job possibilities with a particular individual, be upfront.
What if People Aren’t Helpful?
- As you move along in your networking campaign, you'll hear people say that they don't know of any openings at the moment.
- Tell the contact that any advice about the job market in that field is appreciated, as well as the names of anyone else who may be able to help.
- If someone refuses to help, simply thank them and move on.
What Should I Do When I Meet with My Contact?
- It is important to dress appropriately for the meeting.
- Have questions prepared.
- Send a thank you note after every meeting.
Is There Anything Else I Can Do?
- Identify professional associations affiliated with your field.
- A professional association is an organization made up of members who work in a particular field.
- You can find professional associations online or on LinkedIn.
- Address the fact that you are interested in gathering information about the field, inquire about membership, and find out if the association offers services such as: career information, newsletters and journals, conferences and seminars, membership directory, placement services, professional referrals, regional groups, and free resources.
Final Tips
- Networking is a key aspect of sourcing opportunities that are not posted.
- Keep a log of who you contact and when.
- Stay up to date on trends in your field to discuss in informational interviews.
- If you are interested in more than one field, run two separate networking campaigns.
- Practice your introduction.
- Hello my name is Chris R. Candidate. Mary Smith, my economics professor at Buffalo State, suggested I contact you regarding career possibilities within the banking industry. Would you have a moment to speak with me?
- Good afternoon, Ms. Jones, I have recently graduated with a degree in business. I was hoping to speak with you regarding the service industry. Would you have some time this week for a short conversation?
- Be patient and persistent.
- Have an updated resume just in case! If you contact a person to find out more about your career field of interest, do not ask for employment.
- When appropriate, ask for a business card so you can stay in contact.
