As you start the new year, are you looking for your next job or considering a new career field? If so, here are some tips for engaging your network, from my book, Nourish Your Career:
Let your network know about your goal and be able to share a summary of how your background, skills, interests and experiences support that goal (especially any relevant pieces they would not be aware of). Invite them to share any information, feedback, and specific suggestions they may have to help you refine or expand your search, including organizations and people they might suggest you contact for additional information or possible opportunities.
Be sure to follow up on suggestions that match your goal and thank your network for all ideas offered. It is especially important to follow-up on a referral to a contact and to keep the person who referred you updated on the status of your follow-up.
Keep in touch with members of your network, providing them with periodic updates on your progress. Remember to let them know when you have reached the goal so they can join you in celebrating your success! Most people are happy to help someone else, and they appreciate learning how their help has made a difference.
Finally, don’t forget to give back! Be a resource to others, and actively look for opportunities to stay connected, help, and share periodic tips, ideas or interesting/useful bits of information with those in your network.
Copyright © 2012. Shahrzad Arasteh. All Rights Reserved.
