Reaching Out to Connections

Question

I've heard time and time again that networking is one of the best ways to get a position. How do you go about reaching out to old contacts/mentors who may be able to help you? What details do you include? Is there anything you shouldn't say or ask?

Mindy Claggett · Answer

I read something on LinkedIn about how to reach out to those folks. It's the A.I.R. approach -- ask for Advice, Information, and/or a Referral. It's helpful to name-drop a mutual contact (e.g. 'Joe Smith suggested I reach out to you'). And while this may seem obvious, the one thing NOT to ask for is a job.

I have a meeting scheduled on Monday with the president of a local organization, whom a mutual contact told me I should connect with. My email to her started with a 'Mike B. told me to contact you' kind of intro. I am an alumnus of a university that belongs to her organization, so I mentioned that. Then I went into how my job recently was eliminated, so I've been searching for my next opportunity.  And I just simply said I'm looking for advice from her on how to jump-start my search now that we're in the new year. I asked for a brief in-person meeting at her office -- make it convenient for busy people by going to where they are.

I also reached out to a former colleague who works in a career services role and asked her if we could meet for coffee or lunch. She's another to whom I said the purpose of the meeting is for advice. This meeting will be more casual because I know her already but haven't seen her for years.

I'm just now activating my network like this because I was laid off right before Thanksgiving. I didn't even try to get on peoples' calendars through the holidays, but now it's time for me to move on it.

It's my opinion that most folks will meet with you to help provide guidance, and the added benefit is you'll be fresh in their minds if they find out about a role for which you're qualified. The downside is it's playing the 'long game' and may not net any quick results...or maybe no results at all. Good luck!

Annetta Moses · Answer

Based on my experience,  the time to network is when you don't need assistance.  When you see that people start a new job, or get a promotion send them a LinkedIn message,  email. or slow mail note to acknowledge their accomplishment. If you read an article that you  believe others might enjoy, say hi and pass it to them. Then when you reach out for assistance you 'made deposits' before you asked to make a  'withdrawal.'

Tanika (Nika) Vasquez - (she/her) · Answer

I agree with Mindy, Annetta, and Doris. I have had success by sending my connections a handwritten card. I keep a stash of thank you cards at my desk, and I often send cards saying, 'thank you for being a resource to me. I want to meet with you for coffee and get some advice.' 
I would also work on making new connections. I have connected with numerous women by attending events at my local Chamber of Commerce.

Doris Appelbaum · Answer

Join groups and perform volunteer activities - excellent opportunities to network.

Doris Appelbaum · Answer

Hire a professional career coach; each situation is different.

Natasha Nurse · Answer

Love to talk strategy. Schedule a free session at dressingroom8.com

Kimberly Buonomo · Answer

Hi- I think LinkedIn is a great avenue to keep connected. When reaching out, I would recommend to think of your purpose first. Ask yourself: Why am I making this connection? What value will it add? How are we connected? This will help you further simplify your list of people to contact in addition to figuring out why you are initially contacting them in the first place.

Alyson Garrido, Career Coach · Answer

I try to keep in touch regularly so when I reach out with an ask it doesn't feel out of the blue or like I only turn up if I need something. Having periodic coffees, sending career updates or sharing resources can be effective to stay in touch. I also always follow up after someone makes an introduction letting them know how my meeting went. LinkedIn likes, comments and share can also be a great way to stay on people's radar outside of job search time.

As far as asks, consider how much work the ask will entail and how to make it as easy as possible for them to help you. For example, share a specific introduction or role you're interested in rather than leaving it up to them to determine which role or introduction would be the right fit.

Wishing you all the best!

Reaching Out to Connections

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