Do you just want to crawl into a hole and hide when someone mentions networking to you? Does the idea of striking up a conversation with someone you don’t know sound worse than doing your taxes or going to the dentist?
We hear you. And you’re not alone!
Chances are, if you’ve never worked in corporate or aren’t very social, somewhat shy or just have never done it before, the idea of networking might be really scary to you.
The bad news is that networking is a critical part of the job search, especially as you look to switch industries or job functions. Research has shown that close to 80% of jobs are not published and are gotten through networking. The good news is that networking is a skill and, like with any other skill, it can be learned and you will get better at it with practice.
There are two different aspects to networking and each serves a different purpose. The first is “informational interviews” which are, as they sound, a way to get insight into a company, job role or industry. The second is what is traditionally thought of as networking and is primarily used when you are actively looking for a job.
The two aspects to networking
1. The informational interview
Networking is one of the cornerstones of a successful career and job search. One of the most effective networking tools is known as an “informational interview,” which is a discussion focused on learning — about a role, a person’s career, a company, industry and so much more. Informational interviews can help you plot your next career move and create strong bonds with people who can help you along the way.
An informational interview is an exchange that allows you to get more information about a certain person’s profession or company where they currently work. You can look for people on LinkedIn, Facebook, or any other social media platform. Try to find people at the companies and in roles that you want to know more about. Look for people that you have some connection with: you went to the same school, you have some of the same interests, you are from the same home state etc. Finally, try to find people at “peer level,” not VPs or Senior Managers, but people that are doing the job you would be hired to do.
Informational interview tips
It can be scary to approach a person you don’t know and ask for a meeting, but here are some tips to doing it the right way:
- Do some research on the person.
- Start your message by mentioning any connection you may have with them.
- Congratulate them on any accomplishments that you see on their profile.
- Ask them two or three specific questions in the request message. Be specific. Don’t ask “tell me more about your company or tell me about your career journey.”
- Suggest a few 15–30-minute time slots.
- If you get a no or no response, don’t get discouraged, keep going. Not everyone has good networking skills or is willing. Those that do, will want to help you.
How to prepare for your meeting
- Prepare specific questions in advance.
- Focus on them and their experience. People are more receptive when the conversation is about them rather than you just talking about yourself. Give them a chance to share their story and gauge their level of engagement. If things are going well, then you can pivot the conversation and ask for what you’re really after – advice, a referral, for them to review your resume etc. Remember, this is about building a relationship.
- Be respectful of the allotted time.
- Send a thank you note after.
Remember, confidence starts from within and requires practice. The more you do it, the better your networking skills will become. In today’s world, networking is absolutely essential to getting that job you want.
2. Networking for the Job
When looking for a job and particularly when transitioning to a new career, leveraging networking is key. Having your resume handed to a recruiter or hiring manager almost always guarantees an interview. Don’t just apply to jobs, network first to see if you can get your resume seen.
Keep up your networking efforts described in the previous section. Meet people, set up informational interviews and gather information on jobs, companies and good-to-have skills. You never know which connection may lead you to that job.
Networking tips for the job search
- Target to connect with five (5) people and have one (1) informational interview per week when you are actively job searching.
- When you do find a job that you want to apply to, go on LinkedIn and see if you can connect and start a conversation with anyone that works there. Ideally someone directly in recruiting or working in the same department as the job you are applying to. Set up an informational interview or at least see if they are willing to chat over messenger. If all is going well, ask them if they can hand your resume to the hiring manager or refer you in their applicant tracking system.
- Look for and join networking groups, local and online. Make sure you are making connections and talking to people. Tell everyone you meet that you are job searching and what role and company you are targeting.
- If someone in your personal network, a former co-worker, family member or friend, works at a company that you are targeting, ask them to make an introduction.
One key thing not to do: don’t blindly reach out to someone and ask them to hand your resume to someone at their company or ask them to refer you. Most people won’t refer or endorse someone they don’t know. That’s why informational interviews and getting people to know you is critical.
Now get out there and make some connections!
Ready to start your journey to a career in tech? Check out the Start Here page for step by step guide.
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