Step 4: Network
IN THIS LESSON
Connections can lead to opportunities.
Nurture your connections through regular contact, sharing insights, meeting up, and helping each other. In the job search, it can be especially helpful to let your contacts know what type of role you’re looking for. See below for other networking tips.
You’ve found job postings that you’re interested in and you’re getting ready to apply. In parallel, it’s time to network.
Having a connection that knows you, even a little bit, can help get you in front of the hiring manager, get your resume looked at or even get you an interview. The rest is up to you.
Who do you know in similar roles, that you can learn from? Get more information about the role, the skillsets, the desired experiences for the role?
Who do you know in that organization? Do they know the hiring manager? Can they give a warm introduction? Or, if they don’t, can they tell you about the team culture?
Who are you connected to on LinkedIn that knows someone in that organization? Don’t be afraid of doing research and reaching out. I’ve heard that people are tired of being reached out to. It may be true, so don’t be afraid of being ignored. It’s better than never reaching out.
When networking, there are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Giver, Taker, Matcher: Adam Grant outlines the different reciprocity types: givers, takers, and matchers. When networking, be aware of your approach. What are you giving to the connection? What are you taking from the connection? Don’t just take, take, take. See what you can offer. Do some research on the connection, share some insights.
2. Be respectful of time: only ask for 15 minutes to connect for people you don’t know very well. Keep your exchanges brief. No offense, but the connection likely doesn’t want a dissertation on your previous work experiences. They want to hear what help you're looking for.
3. Have your professional pitch ready: be ready at any time to state what role you’re interested in, why you think you’re a good fit, and a brief statement of your request from the connection. Can they share information about the team or the role? Can they give a warm introduction to the hiring manager? And, how can you help them in return?
4. Be professional and be you: it’s important to be yourself throughout the process, so your true gifts shine.
Set aside time every day to network; make it a part of your daily routine. What is your daily or weekly goal and supporting habit around networking? i.e. contact 3 people a day by 4pm to set up a virtual chat or a coffee…
Now, you’re researching orgs/roles daily and networking daily… keep building momentum.