Today there are more options than ever to network. If you think you know them all, there is a chance you do, but most likely a new one has just started, which is the new rage. You need to know all the best ways to reach people if you want to network for the chance to be in the best place for a great job opportunity. The old fashion ways of drinks and golf are nice and still work, but there is so much more you can be doing.
The growth of the Internet and social networking sites such as LinkedIn, Zoominfo, Zing and others, combined with personal marketing websites and the use of email… are ushering in a new era of networking. And, it is a much easier and more effective way to network.
All you need are some superior resumes and an attractive personal marketing website that display your formal credentials, accomplishments and transferable skills in an impressive way. Then, instead of asking for “an informational interview,” you can just send off a well designed email with a link to your website.
People on the receiving end will get it and be impressed and you will have their time. And, you can use this method to contact hundreds of people in a very short time… people who have a high probability of being able to help you.
What kind of people? I’m not suggesting that you do this with your genuine personal contacts and real friends, who will look forward to visiting with you on a personal basis. However, they would also be very interested in seeing your personal marketing website.
You can also target industries of interest and get contact information on key executives who would be good targets. Infl uential alumni have also proven to be very responsive to this approach. Other possibilities to contact include executive directors of associations who have many “lines” into their industries.
Editors of business magazines and newsletters may also have an inside track on the needs of specifi c organizations.Other good executives to target can be those who have been quoted in articles. This makes an introduction easy and natural.
Also be sure to track down lost contacts in past organizations. As far as informational interviews go, you can do that while abiding by some time tested rules. For example, your discussions must be kept brief, and you need to have your list of questions prepared. You will do better when you have researched a fi rm and are asking for feedback on ideas that may benefit them.