The longer I work as an entrepreneur the more convinced I am that networking in job search is very similar to prospecting for new clients.
I am constantly trying new techniques to meet people who might need help from The Interview Doctor. Today was a perfect example.
I was at a Panera catching up with an old friend, Chad (building and maintaining relationships). We were sitting outside enjoying a beautiful sunny morning chatting about the ways we are growing The Interview Doctor. We swapped some stories about ways to train human resource people to organize job search better.
After we said our goodbyes, a woman I didn’t know stopped me. She apologized for eavesdropping but overheard us talking about job search. Sarah is a stay at home mom ready to return to work. She just doesn’t know what to do to make it happen. This is a pretty common problem. Job search has changed so much that even taking a few years off to raise children makes a job seeker feel pretty inadequate.
Sarah and I exchanged cards. I will reach out to talk with her with the idea of building a relationship. Whether she becomes a client or not, I know I can help Sarah somehow. Reaching out to Sarah could lead to more connections, more relationships, and more business.
The exact same activity works for job seekers.
Find people who can potentially help or that you can help.
Reach out. Start conversations. Build relationships. Ask for referrals.