Networking 101 (first step, don't call it networking)

Time to read: 1.08 minutes

More photos of my pets. :-)

Welcome to week 4 of Job Searching for Corporate Rebels!

Networking. What does that word inspire for you? Fear? Insincerity? Fakeness?

You're not going to use the word anymore. Erase that word from your job search vocabulary. Go on, toss it out.

I'll wait.

If you are only scrolling online job openings and submitting applications, you are not taking full advantage of opportunities. (One caveat: If you are an industrial engineer applying for jobs in industrial engineering, then maybe online applications will work). For everyone else, a personal, relational approach will amp up your results.

Last week, I talked about building momentum. Personal interaction is the way to do that. This means live conversations with real people. The people can be anyone…your family, close friends, colleagues past and present, even strangers.

"I don't want to bug people," you say.

Here's the thing: People love dispensing advice. They love being the one who has finally made it to a place where they have something to offer. And, if they don't want to talk or don't have time, they won't. There's no harm in reaching out. You never know who holds the key to your next opportunity.

Ideally, you've kept in touch over the years. Even if you haven't, it's ok.

You arrive to the conversation prepared with questions about their career, what you are looking for, and what ideas they have for you.

Then you listen. After you've had the business conversation, then you ask about their kids, vacations, and other personal stuff. You'll have more time for a fun, personal check-in.

Today's Hot Tip: Here's a script for an email:

"Hey XYZ, It's been a while since we've connected. I was laid off in December and am starting a job search. I'm reaching far and wide for advice and ideas. Would you be willing to chat with me for 30 minutes?"

Today's Bonus Hot Tip: Be prepared to say yes to a chat with an old friend or an old friend's child about their job search in the future. Pay it forward!

Next week I'm going to tell you the #1 question to ask.

If you have a friend or colleague who is job-seeking, share this blog article with them. They can subscribe here to receive the whole series.

Talk About It!

I've run out of clever job search photos. So here's one of my dog.

Welcome to week 3 of Job Searching for Corporate Rebels!

When I talk to job seekers (or people who want to be promoted or considered for new opportunities), I talk about building momentum.

The fact is, what you think about, talk about, and do grows.

If you complain or bellyache that there are no jobs out there, you'll get more of that result.

If you think and talk about what you want, and you take action toward it, you will get more.

Be patient. Building momentum takes time. Finding a job takes time. You will likely not get an immediate job offer. That doesn't mean you're failing.

Job hunting is not a feel-good activity. You face a lot of rejection and effort that seems pointless. It's not pointless. Every step you take leads to another step and feeds the energy of forward movement and momentum.

So, talk about what you're looking for with everyone and anyone. If you don't know exactly what you're looking for, talk about that. Everyone has been there and will have stories to share.

Today's Hot Tip: If you wonder if you should apply, the answer is always yes. (Assuming it's a job you want. If you don't want it, the answer is no). Nothing is lost by submitting an application. The time you invest refines your ability to talk about yourself and what you are looking for. I'll say it again, every step builds momentum.

Next week, I'll talk about networking. I hate the word and bet many of you do, too. I'll break it down and make it more fun. Stay tuned.

Know someone who is job hunting, all they have to do is subscribe here to receive the whole series.

Email me to ask me a question. I love to hear from you.