I led a Networking workshop for experienced media professionals last week, and one communications manager asked:
When recruiters or senior leaders say they’d be open to a coffee chat, or suggest staying in touch after an interview, but then don’t respond to a follow-up email, when is a good time to check in again? And should the tone or content of that email be any different from the first note?
It can be intimidating to develop relationships with senior people, but if you want to advance your career, it must be done! Here are 4 steps you need to take when networking with busy, influential people:
1. Mix Up Your Content (don’t just keep asking about coffee)
2. Nurture A Genuine Relationship With Regular Follow-up (most people don’t follow up enough, if ever)
3. Help People Help You (make specific asks. People are not mind-readers to what you need)
4. Pace Your Communication To Specific Deadlines (while the best networking isn’t rushed, sometimes you have a job interview to prep for or a promotion to ask for before the decision deadline. You need to set the pace)
See full details on Forbes.com: How To Gain Senior-Level Support – 4 Ways To Network With Busy People
When you need a relationship, it’s too late to build it – Dr. Lois Frankel
What career questions should I answer in future posts? Leave a comment with yours!
