Keeping in Touch with Your Network

Networking is vital in developing your career, especially if you’re on the hunt for a new role. But the term is often used as a buzzword, and many people struggle to understand what it really means. Even when the true nature of networking is fully understood, it’s difficult to know where to start, and putting networking principles into practice requires confidence.

In the sense of job searching, networking involves becoming known by hiring managers and companies you’re interested in working for. Building up strong relationships will help you stand out in what can be a very competitive sea of candidates.

It’s essential to stay in front of the right people throughout your job search. But it takes careful consideration to develop organic relationships and ensure any conversations are natural and genuine.

Many start their networking journey through calls, emails, or connections on LinkedIn, and these are all great ways to stay at the top of a hiring manager’s mind. It can also display an authentic commitment and interest in the role you are applying for, and is a way to let your personality and character shine through before you even get to the interview stage.

But apart from sending a LinkedIn message saying, “Thanks for connecting. I’m Jane Doe, and I’m an experienced procurement professional looking for my next challenge,” it can be easy to run out of ideas or let the communication flow stifle.

Most people struggle to think of reasons to stay in touch—what should you call or email the manager about? How can you go beyond the dreaded generic LinkedIn message? What can you send people to keep the conversation going?

The last thing you want is to be too narrow in your approach, and seem as though you are just getting in touch concerning the specific role you’re seeking, as this could appear disingenuous. Employers look for someone who can add value to their organization and team, and who possesses knowledge and experience they will find useful.

It’s important in these conversations to give more than you receive. You don’t need to keep reminding someone of who you are, as this will happen organically if you stay in contact. An excellent place to start would be to send over the information you feel may be of use or an article you found interesting. Eventually, they may call on you for feedback, expertise, or advice—or even with the offer of an interview.

A constant stream of communication is key. Not every email has to set the world on fire: but every email does show your connections you are still there and keeping them in mind. Reciprocity will lead to the person you’re communicating with sharing information, too—it just takes time.

The process may seem slow, but it can be incredibly fruitful in laying the foundations for a lasting relationship. Candidates will need to put time and effort in and expect a slow burn, so it’s also worth thinking about who you want to put that time into communicating with. Perhaps there are a few key companies or thought leaders you’d like to work with or learn from.

Remember: even taking a little time out each week to check in can lay an important foundation of trust and familiarity, which will be especially important as the hiring market turns a corner.