Here are some quick networking tips as you re-energize for your job search this week! If it's someone you haven't spoken with in a while, let them know what you've been up to and inquire about them as well. It's good to know if you've transitioned roles, changed your line of work, or any new skills you've picked up that reinforce what you're interested in going after next in your career. If you are inquiring about a specific job at their company, be specific in what you are asking: who is the hiring manager is different from what's the culture like. Asking about the culture is great but if you're really trying to make inroads, help them help YOU! Be specific in what your needs are so your contact can know specifically what action to take. Also if it's a specific job, tell them the title, department and provide a requisition number. Give your contact as much information as you can about the role so they can help you better. Especially if they are not in an HR Generalist or Recruiter position. Your contact isn't always going to have insight into when jobs are posted, or who is hiring. Especially if it's a completely different function from them i.e. Finance vs Marketing. Again, help them help YOU. Be polite. Be specific and be gracious even if they can't help out in the way you expect. You never know when you'll need to call on them again. Lastly, don' t be afraid to network with past recruiters that you've spoken with. They typically know in advance when positions are opening up or coming down the pipeline. A friendly call or follow up email reminding them of when you spoke, for what role, and what you're interested in, may be just the reminder they need to consider you for that role that's coming up. Call, email, follow up and be consistent! Be Intentional this week!
Ayanna E. Jackson is a certified HR professional with 20 years experience in corporate roles and non-profit organizations. She provides career advice and a specific plan for those who want to start a job search or have better success in their current job search. She also provides training on career development actions for individuals and leadership training and performance management.
You can contact her at ayanna@ayannaejackson.com.
