SJN - Scottsdale Job Network

Martha Rockwell, Certified Professional Resume Writer and Career Coach, A+ Resumes & Career Coaching, recently spoke to members on the subject of Networking.  Below is Martha’s guidance on preparing for and conducting a networking interview. 

State your name:  “My name is________________.”

Give the name of the person who suggested that you call (the referral). “Mr. John Smith—or–John Smith, a business associate or yours suggested I call you………………”

Ask for permission: “Do you have a few minutes?”

State why you are calling: “I am in the process of making a career change. BEFORE I start my job search, I am doing some important research. I was speaking with name of referral, and he / she thought that you would be able to advise and answer some questions for me. I would really appreciate your input. Is there any reason why we couldn’t meet for about 20 minutes in the next week or two? It would really help me, and I would deeply appreciate your taking the time…..”

Negotiate the meeting, which includes time and day: “What would work better for you, the beginning of the week or a day towards the end of the week……? Morning or afternoon?

Note that you are asking open-ended questions…not questions that would elicit a “yes” or “no” answer.

End the conversation: “Thank you very much. I will have my questions ready, and I am looking forward to meeting with you.”

What you hope to accomplish is to come away from your meeting with three things:  ADVICE, INFORMATION, AND REFERRALS, all elements that will aid you in your job search. 

A – ADVICE

I – INFORMATION

R – REFERRALS

YOU ARE ASKING FOR “AIR TIME”

Networking meetings are nothing to fear, as you are not asking for something the person is not able to give you. Remember, put the word, “JOB” in your back pocket and think that “AIR TIME” is the reason you are there. If you do that, the meeting will be comfortable, enjoyable, and you will come away from a new business relationship that could lead to your next career opportunity.

Some important rules to remember:

• Be on time
• Have your questions ready
• Take only the time you requested—end the meeting on time
• Be appreciative
• Send a thank you note

Martha Rockwell
Certified Professional Resume Writer
Career Coach
A+ Resumes & Career Coaching / 480.663.0681
prostrategies@cox.net / www.confidencebuilder.net