Think As Inc

Avoiding the Annoying Trap

July 22, 2010 on 6:10 pm | In career coaching | No Comments

Networking is critical to the jobseeker.  Most jobs are filled via referrals, not ads.  Getting inside is especially important in a slow economy, when companies cut recruiting costs.  Add to this the competitive labor pool and you may be tempted to network too aggressively.  You think it shows persistence, ambition, and moxy.  However, networking the wrong way can just be annoying.  Here are some tips to avoid the annoying trap:

MAKE A REASONABLE CASE FOR WHY YOU ARE NETWORKING.  I recruited for a firm that only placed senior strategy consultants.  We received countless inquiries from people with no background or interest in consulting.  Do your homework, and only approach relevant targets. 

IF YOU APPROACH SOMEONE REPEATEDLY, SAY SOMETHING DIFFERENT EACH TIME.  Your first approach might be an informational interview.  Your second approach might be a personalized thank you for the interview.  Your third approach might be an interesting insight about what you discussed.  Each time, new information is shared.  No approach should just be to check on job openings.

USE THE INFORMATION YOU ARE COLLECTING.  In the above example, information gleaned from the first interview is useful at least two more times – for the thank you and for a future insight.  It is also useful when networking with other people in the field.  You appear knowledgeable about the industry when you share insights from one insider with others.

REMEMBER TO MAINTAIN THE NETWORK.  When your search is over, circle back to the people who helped you along the way.  Get into the habit of not only calling people for help, but of building genuine relationships.