Turning Networking Into Jobhunting…With Scripts
If you’re not subscribed to the Ask The Headhunter newsletter, you may be missing out.
In this week’s issue, headhunter Nick Corcodilos provides scripts to use when you’re trying to go from casual networking to “oh god please give me a job” without coming across as obnoxious or, well, needy.
Here’s the key part:
When you get face-to-face with a person who works at your target company, try this: “So, how long have you been at Company A? What’s it like to work there? Are there new projects coming up in the next six months?” Allow time for answers to each question before you move on to the next.
“I’ll be honest with you: I’m very interested in working for your company. But I don’t want to start a random job search. The manager whose project you just described—I think I could make a useful contribution to her department; if not now, at some point when a job opens up. What do you think she looks for in a job candidate?” And finally, “Do you think you could introduce me to the manager?”
(If the person you’re talking with is the manager you want to work for, all the better! Just ask, point blank: “Is there anything I can help you with in your department?”)
Of course, as with all “scripts” you want to put this in your own words. But it’s important not to start out with the job question. Remember, keep it comfortable. It’s really easy to think of yourself as needy—after all, you need a job—but you’ve got to remember that you’re talking with peers, not superiors. As Corcodilos adds: “No one wants to find you a job — but they’re often glad to offer advice to someone they view as a compadre in the same business.” It helps, too, if you’re springing for coffee…nobody can turn down free Starbucks, right?
Launch a social media campaign that will build your brand and deliver results in our online 
MediaJobsDaily Twitter feed loading...
