Where Networking Chit Chat Always go Wrong!

Where Networking Chit Chat Always go Wrong!

Most networking conversations are pleasant, friendly and usually exceedingly awkward. Therefore, more often than not, the call ends with both parties agreeing they will stay in touch and let each other know if something comes up. Sound familiar?  What happens next is nothing! Sound even more familiar?   Here are a few things to keep in mind to be sure your networking strategy is moving forward and not stuffed in the already overfull "lets keep in touch" folder.  
  

What to do Before your First Conversation:

Invite your network contact to join you on LinkedIn. Once you are connected,  take a look at their profile and see who they know in companies you are interested in. Also, be sure to note where they are working now and where they worked last.


Your First Conversation - Telling Aint Selling: Asking is!

After some polite conversation and promise of a future quid pro quo, you will simply ask your referral contact if they think your credentials and experience would be a good fit for their company present or past. If the answer is yes, then ask who in the company they can get your resume to. If the answer is no, have them send it to their HR manager anyway.  Be sure to remind him that his company will probably pay a bonus when they hire you! Next, YOU MUST schedule a follow up meeting right there and then. Get on his calendar for the following week to be sure your directives have been carried out...

Immediately following this conversation, go to LinkedIn and write a neat recommendation for your referral... Follow with a thanks and confirmation for your next meeting...


PS  Your personal network is not only a source of enhanced career market value, long-term job security and wealth creation, but it is the absolute heartbeat of your executive job search... 

Blessings
john s