Networking strategy - Part5

FIRST CONTACT WITH YOUR INTRODUCER

7 steps to follow

Here you are! You have identified an informational contact and you introduce yourself to request an informal meeting.

1- Identify you clearly:

Mention what you have in common that made you come to is profile to contextualise your approach.

2- Show gratitude and respect

You are in demand and this person is kindly helping you in your career. The least you can offer is to reward him with consideration.

Moreover, bear in mind that there is a great chance this person knows your target contact and could influence in the good or the bad way.

3- Be clear about your intention

Explain clearly what type of information you’re looking. Go straight to your point in simple words. Don’t beat around the bush.

4- You’re not asking for a favour

Explain what lead you to him as conducting your research on what interests you and that you would like to get a larger and more precise insight. You can assess that you’re not asking for any favour by stating it clearly.

5- Demonstrate your credibility

Tell the person your achievement to assert your legitimacy at asking for such information and what you are pursuing.

6- Invite in a call to action with a time limit

Define what type of exchange you want and how long it will take. You can suggest appointment date. Also, give him an open choice for another way of discussion.

7- Prefer a face to face interview

Despite the evident benefit of a personal contact, you don’t know the actual network range of this person (might even know personally your target contact !) and the other opportunities that could come out of the conversation.

Example:

Hi (name),

I found your Linkedin profile:

-          through (name of the Linkedin group, networking event)

-          after (meeting,  on this particular occasion)

I have x years of experience as a (position title) and I’m looking for my next career move, transition.

Interested by (company), I’m asking my networks to have an insight of what is their value, goals, strategy, struggles etc before going any further with a job inquiry

In fact, I believe that (my achievement: skills, background, project) and career aspirations could be a great fit with (the company, “job title currently posted”).

Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Author: Kevin Simonnet