How do I make the most of networking?
Common questions we have heard recently:
- How do I know the recruiting timeline and process of my target firms?
- How do I know what employers are looking for? Whether I am a good fit?
- How do I increase my chances of getting interviews?
- How do I pivot to another path without direct experience?
If you are feeling stuck in recruiting, networking can help give you the breakthrough you need. Follow these tips to network efficiently and effectively and make the most of each conversation:
1) Set your goals: Clarify what you are looking to gain before each networking conversation, (remember AIR: Advice, Information, Referral). For initial conversations, focus on building rapport and learning as much as you can from their experience. In advance, write down your specific questions, and consider whom can best provide insights, based on their role in the company.
2) Focus on quality: Personalize your outreach messages to maximize your response rate. All you need is one crucial contact to make progress. Cultivate that relationship and follow up. Avoid sending the same message to multiple people at once, especially if they are at the same company.
3) Be fully prepared: Approach your networking call like it is essentially a mini interview. Based on the conversation, the contact evaluates you and decides how much they would invest time and energy to help you. Make sure you do research on the person and the firm in advance and prepare thoughtful questions. You only get one chance to make a first impression.
Resources:
- Who do I network with? Leverage the resources on Contacts & Directories on Your CDO.
- How do I prepare for networking? Reference our Networking Strategies resources on Your CDO to help you prepare, including sample questions, thank you emails, tracking spreadsheet, and general advice.
