According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics[1],
70% of people land their jobs through networking. Aside from your killer
resume, cover letter, and portfolio, there is no greater ‘in’ than someone who
is already ‘in’. It’s intimidating to reach out to someone you haven’t spoken
to in a while, especially when you’re asking for a something that only benefits
you. In this case, it’s okay to be a little selfish, but it’s also crucial that
you approach the person in the correct and appropriate way.
Depending on how well you know your contact, directly asking
for a job can be aggressive and even create tension with that person. There’s a
better approach. Email them and ask about how they got into their position, or
ask for some feedback on working at the company. Be sure to showcase your
interest and craving for a job with their company in the email. Show that
you’ve done your research and that you are truly passionate for an opportunity
there. It doesn’t hurt to give value statements on how you can benefit the
company as well.
Sending an email gives your contact time to prepare a
response. If you can, try to schedule a meeting with this person. It’s more
personable, and it will help build that relationship for the future. If all
goes smoothly, your contact will be willing to share prospective job
opportunities and give advice on how to get hired.
Always have a business card ready to give the person you’re
meeting with, that way they have your contact information and a better chance
to remember you down the road. You should always write them a thank you card afterward
to express your gratitude.
If there are no current opportunities with the company, you
still want to build a relationship with your contact. You need to periodically stay
in touch with this person because you never know when you’ll need their help
again. It’s also easier to give a reference when they know you more personally.
Don’t limit yourself to this one contact! Build a networking relationship with anyone
who could help throughout your career. It’s not always what you know, but who
you know.
Bonus Tip: There’s also a great networking asset right at
your fingertips! LinkedIn is an excellent way to connect with people you’ve
worked with/met in the past. Contacting someone on there is easy, accessible,
and professional. To give yourself an extra boost, ask people to write a
recommendation on your LinkedIn page. It’s a great way for potential employers
to learn about you beyond your resume, and it helps you stand out in the job
search.
Have more questions on networking? Feel free to comment below or contact one of our recruiters. Find the closest office to you at http://www.cfstaffing.com/contact_cfs/
[1] http://www.bls.gov/
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