I’ve had two experiences in the last few weeks that give credence to the title of this post.
In early September I was walking with a friend who consults in the accounting world. I casually mentioned that I’d applied for a position as a student advisor at a local college. To my surprise she said, “I have a good friend at that college.” She passed my resume along to her friend with a strong personal recommendation. Her friend contacted the hiring manager and forwarded my resume directly to her. While I’d applied on line, it’s the personal recommendation that took my name from one of many on a screen to a short list of potential candidates.
Today I had lunch with another friend who lives in Connecticut and recently retired from her position as Director of Guidance for a school district. I casually mentioned that I’d applied for a position in Career Services at a college in New York City. To my great surprise, she said she knew someone who is teaching at that college. She will be making the connection for me tomorrow and hopefully I will be talking to her contact by the end of the week.
I’d rather be saying that I uncovered these contacts through intent versus accident, but the truth is it was pure luck. I did reach out to two colleagues who work in higher education, but neither knew of anyone at either of the institutions I’d applied to. I did not expand the inquiry to my broader network group.
One of the basics of networking is don’t edit before you ask – meaning don’t assume that someone wouldn’t have a contact in a company or field you’re interested in. Put the question or request out there and see what comes back. These stories are a reminder that you never know who your friends, family members, on-line network and colleagues know until you ask.
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beth, your advice is such a worthy read: practical applications not theoretical observations. great resource for anyone in or even considering a search or re-invention.
ReplyDeleteNo offense, but my brother wouldn't even reach out on my behalf. I'll never understand folks like you who think this works for most people.
ReplyDeleteI am the only person I know who's ever done anything like this for someone else. Fat lot of good it did me.
There is no doubt that networking is tough and that we are often discouraged when people we thought would help us don't. I have had my fair share of those as well. More often than not, these people simply don't understand the process or perhaps we need to state our request differently. People feel put upon when you ask for a job. People are more likely to help out when what you're seeking is guidance. The purpose of networking is to help you gather information that will ultimately lead you to your next job. Please don't stop helping others. Check out the blog in the next day or two and I'll give some networking tips.
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