Hello everyone, I'm trying to get pointers on how to expand my network and reach out to people. I'm looking to meet and network with employers and potential mentors but I'm not quite sure how to do the initial introduction.
Answers
India, Lots of great advice has already been given - so doubt I will add much, but I will re-emphasize some of the items above as they worked well for me. First I will note that you have to be assertive (not aggressive!) and put yourself out there. People are often very willing to talk about what they do - so once you start the conversation it typically goes well. Always look for an opportunity to ask for additional contacts / introduction opportunities. As your network grows, it will become easier to meet people who are in a position to help you (BTW - do your best to meet and impress hiring managers. Recruiters aren't necessarily going to get you an interview. Hiring managers who you have impressed may) Networking: Meetup.com is awesome. ACP's mentoring program is a great way to both hone your interviewing skills and expand your network (one of the key benefits of the ACP mentor is their network). ACP events in your area (if any - if not, consider traveling to one). And keep every avenue open: work with headhunters, attend job fairs etc. You'd be surprised at how quickly you will build a robust network.
India, Not sure if this is something for you to pursue or not, but you might investigate a Dallas-based company that provides a national potential to utilize your personal networks of people that can provide a long term residual income for you. You will find this a practical way to learn the process of how to develop and expand your networks alongside a process that can help you reach your financial goals. See this site to start: www.newlife4u.energygoldrush.com best of luck to you.
There are many ways and you should use them all.
LinkedIn, MeetUp.com, Adult Ed / Continuing Ed classes. Look up anyone and everyone that you had contact with and ask how they are and what they are doing these days.
Keep tabs on who you've reached out to and keep notes on what has happened.
And be vigilant -- and persistent. Do not be shy!
And whenever possible -- meet for a coffee or a beer and see people in person. Makes a huge difference and likely only will cost you a cup of coffee!
Depending on your time frame, check in with your local Chamber of Commerce, You can get some great contacts and see about an entry level position assisting the President with events and communication. Have some fun!
Thank you for your service. Once you have a list of potential employers and mentors through your local searches on the internet, business journals, chamber of commerce and LinkedIn you may want to think about a handwritten note as something which stands out. You can quickly say you would like to have a coffee to understand more about their role and the success they have had at XXX company. Sometimes an email will get blocked or not responded to with some many coming in. You should mention a short couple of highlights about your experience and what you would like to gain from a quick connect. Once you connect, it is good to have a couple of questions outlined. Below are some.
Begin the meeting by introducing yourself via sharing:
Your personal background and work experience.
Other
Ask the individual you are meeting with to share:
Share their personal background work experience.
How would they describe the organizational culture within their work group?
What are the keys to success at XXX Company?
How did you get into your current role?
What kinds of experience prepared you for this role?
After the connect, try and gain a name or two to duplicate the process and continue to build out your network. It is good to write down what you learned and add this to your internal profile for connecting.
You may want to have a grid with you in the center and then specific capabilities of folks you want to learn from in one section and then another section of potential jobs and finally another with potential mentors.
Hope this was helpful.
Hi India,
There are some good answers here about reaching out to people in your field and asking about their jobs, field, industry, etc. People love to talk about themselves! The one thing I would add is that at the end of your discussion, ask two questions. First, may I Link In with you? (if you haven't already) Second, is there anyone else you suggest I talk to? (sometimes you'll get a name or two but not always) Both are ways to expand your network.
Best of luck to you,
Keith
I suggest asking people to lunch by saying that you want to hear their perspectives and advice (for a young professional in the industry, etc). This will gradually gain you the person's interest and support.
India: a great way to start a conversation is to ask people about their job. For example, if you wanted to get into HCM then maybe start by joining a professional group on LinkedIn for HR/HCM professionals. You can then are able to message any other group member. A brief note explaining who you are and that you would love to hear about that person's experience in the field will allow you to build some understanding. Some of those people will become connections.
That's my best recommendation.
Best,
Drew
I find linkedin.com to be a good medium for networking. Linkedin is a social network for professionals. Many recruiters use linkedin to find talent, but you can also post messages (like facebook) to your contacts. Plus you can also send direct messages to your contacts which will help you reconnect with your former teammates.
Good Luck!
India,
Many thanks for your service. I found this really helpful and crisp outline that can provide a framework. Please take a look. I pasted it below. I hope that you find it useful. Good luck and glad to assist.
Best-
Doug
http://veterans.nbcnews.com/find-a-job/networking-for-veterans/
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