In all the years I’ve been coaching Next Gen navigate their career journeys, I have always adjusted advice to each client based on his/her specific requirements. Everyone is different, having unique needs and areas of focus. However, with each client I always emphasize the criticality of building and utilizing a robust support network. Remember, successful people know other successful people. Too many believe networking is about asking for a job. It is not. When networking, you are seeking advice and any introductions into their inner circle they believe would be advantageous to you. You already have the foundation of a support network. Family friends, college alumni, coaches, family financial advisors and legal support. They are all sources that can help you. Always be sure you have a specific objective as to why you are reaching out so they know how they can help. For example, if you are looking for help/advice regarding your career path, there are a variety of ways to build your support network. Here are just a few:
- To someone you have a relationship with:
Hi XXX,
A FEW PERSONAL THOUGHTS. As you have been helpful in the past I wanted to reach out as I contemplate a transition within my professional life. As you know me and have enjoyed professional success, I would appreciate any guidance or assistance you could offer in my employment search.
I’ve attached my updated resume and would appreciate your feedback. In addition, I’m a firm believer in networking with successful people and would be grateful for any introductions you believe may be beneficial in my employment search. Please let me know if you would be open to a quick conservation as I’m happy to connect around your schedule.
LinkedIn is a powerful tool to engage people you may not know. Adding a note to someone from your college like “Dear fellow (name of your college mascot) As a member of the class of XXX, I’m looking to network with successful alumni as I consider a transition within my professional life. I hope you accept my invitation as I would welcome a chance to learn from your experience. Best- Michael”
Once your invitation is accepted, your response should be:
Dear XXX,
Thanks very much for accepting my invitation. Per my note I am contemplating a professional transition and would appreciate any guidance or assistance you could offer in my employment search. I would welcome a chance to speak at your convenience as I have always found networking with successful people extremely valuable. Please let me know if you are open to the idea and we find a time that works around your schedule. I have attached my resume for your review.
Optional if they work for a firm that may have a role for you: In addition, XXX is an employer of choice for me and as such would welcome any advice you may have as to the best way to explore potential opportunities there.
Thanks for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
- To a referral someone gave you don’t know, an email could be:
Dear XXX:
My name is XXXXX and my (father/mother, XXX), encouraged me to reach out as I contemplate a transition within my professional life. (Optional): I recently graduated from XXX with a degree in XXX. In speaking with XXX I know you have enjoyed professional success and I would appreciate any guidance or assistance you could offer in my employment search. I would welcome a chance to speak at your convenience as I have always found networking with successful people extremely valuable. Please let me know if you are open to the idea and we find a time that works around your schedule. I have attached my resume for your review.
Optional if they work for a firm that may have a role for you: In addition, XXX is an employer of choice for me and as such would welcome any advice you may have as to the best way to explore potential opportunities there.
Thanks for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
The benefits of networking are endless. Here are a few:
- Creating mutually beneficial lifelong relationships
- An avenue to exchange ideas
- An inside track for new opportunities
- Improving your creative intellect
- Growing self-confidence
Support Networking is a life skill that never stops from which you will reap returns and give back. Start building yours today!