When you’re on the lookout for a new job, it can be an advantage for you to look into your network of contacts in order to give you the best chances of landing on your feet with a new role. But it can sometimes feel a little embarrassing going to others for help – people know you’re in the market for something so there’s pressure to succeed and you also feel vulnerable by asking for help. Here are some good ways of approaching the situation that will take a little of the stress out of it.
Someone you’ve worked with closely
A person you have worked with in the past and have a good relationship with can be a huge help to you on the job hunt. Be sure to mention how you are keeping up with their current endeavors and congratulate them on their work. Tell them in detail about your goals for a new role and how you value their opinion and input as they know you very well. Tell them that you would be happy to help them out with any future jobs searches they may need to do.
Someone in your desired industry
It’s a good move to start speaking to someone in a field you want to become a part of. There’s a decent chance that they may know a wide range of people and some of them may be hiring. Explain to them that you are looking to change career and that you are aware of their successes in that area. Mention a more specific idea of what you are looking for and politely ask that if they know of anything similar to let you know. Be sure to attach your up to date resume for them to forward on if they know of anything suitable!
A specific contact
So, you have found someone who could be a huge asset to you and your job hunt; you don’t know them personally, but it turns out you do have a connection in common. What do you do? Tell them about your new career plans and note that you are interested in the connection they have. Be polite and ask if it is possible if you could be introduced. Tell them how much it would be appreciated and thank them for their help and time.
Anyone else
If the person you want to get in contact with doesn’t fall into any of the above categories, it can still be very worth your time to get in contact. Be polite and mention your new intentions to them. Tell them that any help or knowledge would be appreciated and you would be happy to return the favor in the future. With anyone you are asking for help from, be sure to make them feel as though you value them personally too – no one likes the guy who only talks to you when he needs something!
So while it can feel very daunting to open up and start that job hunt, swallow your pride and use this guide in order to give yourself the best possible chance at finding a job that could be a perfect fit for you. Good luck and happy job hunting.
