Networking or Pestering?
Networking or Pestering?
Q: I’ve been networking in my current job search and recently reached out to a contact to schedule a coffee meeting. This was over two weeks ago and I haven’t heard back—do I call again? Should I change my approach? Where is the line between persistent and annoying?A:
Your job search is off to a great start because you realize that networking is the most effective way to get a job. While having this meeting is of vital importance to you, it’s not the top priority of people you are trying to contact. People may not return your call or email after your first or second attempts. Don’t get mad, don’t ignore them, just understand people are busy. Their work days are full, and their personal time is booked. I find most people really do want to help, and they need your understanding and direction to figure out how. Most likely, you will need to make several attempts to actually get someone to do something, whether it’s make an introduction, return a call, or arrange a meeting. Be prepared and know that it isn’t anything personal.
The most effective networking involves a “bridge”—an intermediary contact or friend who can help you make a connection. Use this person’s name in a voicemail and copy them on any emails you arrange. As far as your approach, give the person options of ways to connect and when. Perhaps coffee is too time-consuming, involves leaving the office, and they can’t see how to fit you in. So, offer a quick meeting at any time and any location that is convenient for them. Do not send emails saying, “I have contacted you a few times and …”—this has become a favorite approach of sales organizations, and I do not see how trying to make someone feel bad enhances the chance of a response. Ignore other attempts. Act as if this is the first time you have called or emailed. They may bring it up, and if so, be gracious. Anticipate multiple approaches over a few weeks or longer. People worry that repeated attempts at contact will make them a nuisance. If your targeted contact doesn’t return a call or email, follow up with your bridge for help. Ask, “Should I back off? Should I keep trying?” Preface the conversation with your awareness of your contact’s busy schedule— “I know they are really busy / have a lot to do / this isn’t their priority”—and then ask for a specific favor. They probably have more information about the person and his or her calendar. Are they on a big case, traveling, out of the office? Having this additional information can ease your anxiety of this as a personal rejection. In a world where it can take four to five attempts to schedule a call, persistence is just part of the networking experience—you’re not becoming a pest!
You may find your bridge is the one dragging his or her feet with a networking request. Be direct—acknowledge the hesitation and ask why he or she is reluctant. Some people are uncomfortable making introductions, especially if they are concerned about contacts asking for a job. Let them know you understand the nuances of networking and won’t make them look bad under any circumstances. If it still isn’t happening, tell your bridge that you understand. Some people just don’t “get” networking, and they might find other ways to help you.
Whether you’re actively seeking a job or not, keep your network active. If you network only when you need something, people will opt out of being in your network.
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