Job Search Networking: Network like a Rock Star

Job search networking is a critical success factor in accessing those jobs in the hidden job market. But if you’re not feeling comfortable yet, here are 7 simple tips that might help. This approach is not to be manipulative, which rarely works because other people usually feel it somehow. This works because you focus on things to help the other person feel special, and begin building a relationship that will benefit both of you.

1. Dress so not only do you look confident, you feel it as well.

Everyone loves a confident attitude. It makes the conversation much more fun for both of you. Do whatever works for you to feel confident. It is hard to convey confidence when you’re not feeling it.  The more confident you feel, the easier it is to focus on the other person.

2. Know whom you’re talking to and what you want to talk about.

Have interesting questions ready, especially if they are not the typical questions. Think of the typical questions and then discard them. Try to craft questions that will not only get you the information you need, but are not typical. The other person will enjoy your fresh approach. (I’ll give you ideas for some great questions in the next post.) Ask the most important/interesting ones first just in case the conversation goes in another direction. That’s often a good sign that they are engaged and enjoying themselves.

3. Make them comfortable.

Often when talking to people who outrank us in some way, we are nervous. Understandable yet unnecessary, it’s focusing on yourself and that entire negative self-talk that makes you nervous. Focus on them and make them feel special. Easiest way to do that? Really listen and put your agenda second to that. Additional benefit? You won’t feel so self-conscious and nervous. They will enjoy and appreciate the limelight.

4. Power handshake protocol: stand, look them in the eye, and notice if they extend their hand.

Sometimes people would prefer not to shake hands; it’s nothing personal and I’m sure you know the two-hand shake with your left hand over your right is a pretty intimate thing to do.  Ask someone to give you feedback on your handshake. You may be surprised at the impression you’re creating.

5. Stand up when they come into the room.

I felt the need to say that again. At one time I was beginning to wonder if this rule was becoming obsolete. But then several hiring managers I was recruiting for expressed their displeasure that some candidates didn’t stand when being introduced during an interview. So I guess this piece of etiquette is one place I wouldn’t take a chance. An advantage is that when you rise as if the person is special but a peer nonetheless, it conveys respect AND confidence.

6. Don’t:

Don’t interrupt, don’t rush to fill a silence, and don’t babble. When you hear yourself do any one of those things, just stop. Even if you’re in the middle of a sentence. Usually people are just so grateful that you’ve stopped, they won’t even notice you didn’t finish your thought. If they do ask you to continue, then you are good to go, though perhaps more slowly and/or thoughtfully.

7. A memorable thank-you.

In whatever form your thank-you takes, mention the most meaningful part of the conversation and what it meant to you. You don’t need to expose too much of yourself, but authenticity is compelling.

And an extra because I mentioned standing up twice!

Always be sure to ask how you can be of assistance to them! Very few people do this, and it makes you a standout networking connection. The people you’re meeting with probably get asked for their help a lot. They probably rarely get asked how they can be helped.

They will be willing to refer you to others in their network, and you’re on your way to creating a power network for your next job and perhaps all your jobs for the rest of your career.

Please Tell Us!

What do you do to help people feel comfortable when you’re networking? What are your tips for making them feel like a rock star and glad you asked to meet with them?

The most important thing to do to get into the hidden job market–have actual conversations! And if the thought of calling strangers makes you cringe, help is here! FREE Networking Scripts to Get Into the Hidden Job Market

Soon you’ll be getting into the hidden job market to hear about all those unadvertised jobs!

All my best wishes for a fast successful job search.

Katherine Moody

As an ex-reluctant networker, Katherine Moody shares today’s down to earth techniques for getting into the hidden job market. Visit her website at http://hiddenjobmarketsecrets.com for more information.

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