Networking DOs and DON'Ts
- Don't be afraid to ask for what you need.
- Do be prompt, professionally dressed and courteous.
- Do report back. (Did you follow their advice? What happened?)
- Do follow up on all referrals.
- Do use all opportunities to network, anytime, anyplace.
- Do keep in touch with your old networks.
- Don't expect individuals in your network to be your personal headhunters.
- Don't be discouraged if someone brushes you off. It usually has nothing to do with you.
- Do ask questions for which you really need the answers; not things you could have easily looked up yourself.
- Don't have the expectation that the network contact is responsible for finding you a job within their organization.
Networking Followup
One of the things that job seekers struggle with is how to update their network on the progress of their job search. In today's world, the easiest way to do this is with an e-mail. Individuals struggle with "What do I say?" This sample letter may help you address this issue.
Pay special attention to the "How you can help me" section. It is not uncommon that while they are willing to help, friends and colleagues don't often know how to help you. So be specific in guiding them as to how they can help you. The more ideas you can give them, the better.