Sometimes the hardest part of face-to-face networking is contacting the individual and asking for a meeting. Here are some tips to get your foot in the door to speak with a network contact:
How to Network by Phone
One way is to call them on the phone, although they might be difficult to reach. If you choose to call them, prepare a little script in advance, introducing yourself, mentioning the person who referred you if it is a referral and requesting a brief meeting to gather some career information. (You’re more likely to be successful if you talk about information rather than wanting a job.)
How to Write a Network Approach Letter
An alternative to a phone call would be an approach letter, which can be sent by email.
In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and explain why contacting the person motivates you to make this request. Perhaps you read an article they wrote or a mutual contact told you that they are very knowledgeable about the field you are interested in.
In the second paragraph, you might tell them about your credentials in two or three sentences.
In the last paragraph, you make your request. State that you have some questions about how to enter your field of interest or how to move up in your field or whatever your career goal is at the time. And you would really appreciate it if they had twenty minutes or so to share their perspective with you. Tell them that you’ll contact them in a week to arrange a mutually convenient time to meet.
When you perform the follow-up contact, remind them of who you are, how you are connected to them and ask if they would have twenty minutes or so to talk with you. Ask when and where would be convenient for them and set it up. Ideally you want to meet face-to-face, but if they are only willing to do it by phone, then graciously accept that.
Networking — Just Do It!
Networking is a critical part of any job search or career change. Whether you network by phone, in writing or in-person, make it a point to speak with as many people as possible. You never know…the next person you speak with may have the connection to the perfect job opportunity!
