“Networking is a lot like dating.” Actually, I kind of think the whole job searching process is a lot like dating, but that’s another analogy for another time. That quote is a link to a New York times article mostly giving advice to those who fielding networking calls from those of us searching for contacts, information, and jobs. However, it’s always good to keep in mind when you are networking what the other person might be thinking. Most people do want to help, I’ve learned, but they also have to be mindful of their own position when doing so.
The last question in the article deals with those of us asking for help and the answer advises to treat each networking call as if it were an information interview. Never ask point blank if your contact knows of any jobs. You don’t want to seem desperate. Also, specific (and I’ll add reasonable) requests can be more effective than general pleas for help.
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