As an executive, you know that in large part your ability to find a new position depends on the strength of your network. The more expansive it is, the better chance there is of you learning about opportunities that aren’t advertised. It’s therefore critically important to regularly check the health of your network to ensure it’s as strong as possible and shore up any weaknesses. To help you along the way, consider these tips:
Tip #1: Reach out to colleagues and former managers.
As leaders in executive recruiting in Northern California, Pacific ExecSearch knows your network likely consists of a healthy blend of those you worked with in the past as well as those you worked for. If it doesn’t, or you’ve lost touch with these individuals, use social networking websites like LinkedIn to do some research and re-connect.
Tip #2: Meet up with regular contacts.
You probably don’t have time for lunch or coffee with everyone in your network. However, there are likely a few key people who could help with your job search that you may not have touched base with in a while. Reach out to these individuals and invite them to lunch, coffee or for drinks. If you’re attending an upcoming industry event or seminar – and you know one of your contacts is too – make plans to connect. Face-to-face time is just as important as online networking.
Tip #3: Ask for references.
If there are people in your network that would serve as strong references, ask them. Most individuals are typically more than happy to help out in these kinds of situations. Just make sure you give them a heads up before a potential employer contacts them.
Tip #4: Make new contacts.
You should be adding new people to your network on a regular basis. Keep in mind, you don’t need to attend a formal networking event to do so. Instead, occasions such as weddings and holiday parties offer opportunities to meet new people and expand your network. While you don’t want to be too pushy or assertive at social affairs, it’s perfectly acceptable to give a potential new contact your business card.
Tip #5: Keep an open mind.
Don’t just network or try to connect with those in your industry. There are plenty of exciting and rewarding opportunities in many different industries – and you don’t want to close yourself off to those. So keep an open mind when networking. You never know where you next great job will come from.
If you need more help finding a new executive leadership position, call Pacific ExecSearch. We’ve been helping people achieve professional success for more than 25 years. As experts in the field of executive recruiting in Northern California, we can help you uncover opportunities no one else knows about and guide you toward achieving your career goals.