Networking 101
Making Contact
A networking meeting may also be referred to as an informational interview. The distinction between an informational interview and a networking meeting is that an informational interview is solely for information and NOT to ask your contact for a job. The number one pet peeve for individuals granting informational interviews is when networkers use the "bait and switch" tactic. Our best advice is to be upfront and specific about what you want achieve from the meeting.
You can make contacts and setup both, informational interviews and networking meetings, by using the same methods: in person (see networking scenarios), by phone, by mail, and online.
Example request for an informational interview:
"Hello, my name is Lou O'Connor, Carol Smily suggested that I call you. I am considering a career in urban planning and would be interested in any information to help me focus my job-search efforts and broaden my visibility in the job market."
Example request for networking meeting:
"Ms. Greene, Olivia Manner suggested that I contact you regarding opportunities within your marketing department. She mentioned that the startup of your new division might create a need for someone who can contribute to your international marketing division. If that's true, I'd like to express my interest. If my information is incorrect and there's no prospect for employment here, then perhaps we could go to Plan B -- that is, I'd welcome the chance to informally discuss the market for high-tech marketing professionals in California."
(usually follows a informational interview, after you've received contact names)
Last updated on Monday, September 18, 06 at 01:41:16 PM EDT.
