I received this question via LinkedIn today. My response follows. After I hit Send, I realized how often I am asked this or similar questions and thought it prudent to add it as a blog post for people to refer to as they needed rather than waiting for my response. Please tell me if this helps you or someone you know. If we have a positive response, I will likely post similar posts more regularly.
*** message ***
Dear Lori,
I need some advice from you. A 1st contact in my network, who I have met in person, is linked to someone at a company I am interested in for my next career challenge. He has agreed to introduce us.
I want to make the most of this connection. Should I ask for a simple networking meeting or send her a direct application or simply be direct and inform her that I believe I would be a good fit for her company?
Any advice you can share will be most helpful since my experience in job searching has been limited to 1 job in 25 years!
Please contact me at anytime if I may assist you in some way.
Thank you for your time and interest.
*** response ***
I am happy to help. My first inclination would be to ask for an introduction request through LinkedIn and be honest about asking for an Informational Interview. Let her know you are looking for work at a company like hers and ask if she would be open to an interview to assist you in preparing for the process.
I am confident that she will agree. Most people will. Then, if she has something available, the contact will have been made. And if she knows anyone else you should speak to, she will be more likely to be able to provide a solid introduction having done an intial interview herself.
Be sure to thank each party for their time and consideration. You might send a handwritten note if you have their address. Ask who would be a good referral for them so that you will be aware of potential introductions you can make in your networking travels. And let them know that their efforts on your behalf paid off. People need good news!
Best regards,
Lori Ruff
Lead Social Media Coach
Integrated Alliances
