Almost painless networking
A number of my clients are considering career transitions. But, I quickly see their energy drain away when I point out that mining their network is part of finding a new job.
Reaching out to cold, or even cool associates to ask for help during a job hunt is intimidating and can even feel a little presumptuous. But, if you spent time now nurturing your network, it’s much easier to reach out if a job hunt is in your future.
My favorite networking approach is easy:
Every week I send a brief note to a dozen contacts. I make sure to include links to articles I think they’d like to read. This is simple, fast and doesn’t require them to do anything in return. Best of all, it keeps our connection alive. I like this light touch. My “peeps” know I care about them and that I want to stay in touch.
I also make sure to share any Linkedin or Facebook posts from folks in my network. Again, easy and supportive.
While I enjoy keeping in touch, I also know that a nurtured network is easier to access when I need help. A solid network can support a successful job hunt by providing introductions to new, secondary contacts. Lori Bumgarner’s article, How to Write Networking Emails, is a good resource on how to effectively email to make those initial connections. Four recommendations stand out from her article:
Refer to your mutual contact in the subject line. “ Debra suggested that I reach out.”
Copy your mutual contact on the email.
Be clear, concise and appreciative.
It’s ok to follow up if you don’t get a response.
Take a few minutes and read her entire article.