Maximising Personal Networks

Aside from using online options to aid her job search, Shauna realises she has a ready made network she can leverage in a few different ways.

Despite some initial hesitancy around asking for help, Shauna quickly found out people were willing to assist her however they could.

In fact, we all have a certain anxiety to some degree about asking for help or guidance but also we know people enjoy being asked for help!

Downloads

Assessing Your Network

A few ideas of questions you can ask your network

The important factor is how you approach people. It should be a humble, personal appeal which recognises the expertise of the person you’re approaching.

Showing someone you value their knowledge and standing usually opens them up to wanting to help. Or if they are unable to, giving you another suggestion of where to look for assistance.

PEOPLE WE COULD APPROACH

Ex-Managers / Colleagues – people you worked with can offer a lot. They can give you a perspective you may not have considered, feedback on things you could improve on, knowledge of new opportunities or just some friendly advice from their own job search experiences.

Family & Friends – the people who know us best. They can be honest with us and may know of people we could be referred to or could simply offer advice & support when needed.

Customers / Suppliers / External Business Partners – your career may have created close friendships or working partnerships with external stakeholders who are probably more connected than you thought.

APPROACHING THE CONVERSATION

Keep it simple and straightforward and honest. Open up with something like…

“Hello, I wanted to reach out because during the time we’ve known each other, I’ve come to heavily respect your knowledge and advice. I’m currently going through a job search and it would mean a lot to me if we could chat about my journey or even catch up for a coffee soon?”

Thank them afterwards because you hope they’ve added some value and given their time for you. It may even be they become one of your referees depending on the relationship you had with them.

ENJOY THE FEELING OF BEING SUPPORTED AND VALUED

If you have decided to reach out and had a productive conversation then please take a moment to recognise how good that feels!

AVOID THIS APPROACH

As tempting as it may be, there is little value in posting status updates on social media like…

“Hi all! I’m officially looking for a new job! Any ideas, send them my way or tag me 😊. Much Love”.

It takes away from your credibility immediately and evidence supports this. Rarely do people get tagged in anything meaningful or which leads to a solid opportunity.

Keep focused and make your efforts personalised for the right response and impact.