It's not called networking, it’ called “finding experts”

Much of what’s on your current minds is not only managing your outflow (spending) but also maximizing some inflow (income). Whether you’re still trying to stick your landing for summer 2020 or have fully turned your attention to 2021 prep, we discuss best-foot-in-the-door tips not known to many.

Re-frame: If the word “networking” makes you itch and instinctively clutch the imaginary seltzer water held awkwardly in your hand… Let’s reframe this activity as “finding experts”. Given the digital-only version in our COVID world, opportunities abound for you to prep well “off-stage.”

Q: What are things I should consider before I reach out to someone?

Step 1. Are they the right contact for you?

Save your time (and respect others’) and don’t mass-blast. Anyone you reach out to should know why. Same geography or alma mater? A division or function aligned to your career? Don’t spend time on an outreach until you’ve spent the time looking into the person’s background.

💡Pro Tip for LinkedIn:

• 1st connection — Green light. If you’re not friends, remind them how you met.

• 2nd connection — Who’s a mutual connection you have in common? Ask that person for an introduction. Expert move: Go the extra mile and draft the introduction to lessen the chances of them saying no.

• No connection (3rd connection) — Best to skip and save your time.

Step 2. What are YOUR ASKS? Have a purpose.

Know your ideal outcome. No one has time for “pick your brain” conversations. When others help you, they want to feel a sense of accomplishment. Clarify in your mind your specific ask, and run it through the 3 C’s Meter — clear, concise and compelling.

Example Asks: “I want to apply to This Great Role, and would love to ask you some questions to help ensure I am a fit.”

Don’t have an ask? Just want to “broaden your network for future opportunities”? Then hold off until you do.

Q: How do I craft the perfect message? Can you tell me what to say?

The Intro

Set the stage and breadcrumb how awesome this outreach is going to be.

• What do you have in common — “We met at (Cool Event).” “We both hail from (Amazing Alma Mater).”

• The winning hook on your background — “I am the (Great Title at an Organization) looking to (do something that shows I hustle ambitiously).”

The Meat

The 1-2 punch of your strengths and your outreach-purpose.

• Strengths — “My top strength is (Some Kickass Ability) which I would love to contribute to (Dream Company). You can see an example of this through my experience taking on (Something Cool).”

• Purpose — “I plan to apply to (this role in the company) and would love to hear your experience.” Or, “I know there’s limited current openings but I would love to share my experiences and offer some ideas, for when opportunities arise.”

🚨PSA 1: Can’t think of any strengths? Text 3 friends and ask them to tell you 3 superpowers they believe you have.

🚨PSA 2: Tailor your strengths to what the company specializes in. If they are an enterprise IT firm, toot your analytical skills not your social skills.

The Closer

Show you have a high EQ (emotional intelligence) around the value of everyone’s time. “A 15 minute conversation would be appreciated.” Or, “If the timing isn’t ideal, please let me know a better time and I will gladly follow up accordingly.”

Thicken that skin. Finding experts takes practice. Whether you’re ignored, turned down, or ghosted, don’t take it personally. Keep moving forward.