Conduct Targeted Networking Using These Steps

Targeted networking is a way to strategize how you make the most of the people who might be able to help you land a job. This means getting to know influencers and people who make decisions within your chosen career path. Follow these steps to find the right people and connect with them.

Ultimately, the outcome of targeted networking is to have an informational interview that tells you if a job opportunity is waiting for you. After that informational interview, you want your connection to recommend you for a job. Before you reach that point, you need to go through a process to make sure you have the right person.

1. Make a List

Finding the target means looking in the right place. Make a list of the 10 companies for which you want to work. Research each organization to see if the employer fits your ideals, goals and attitudes. Examine how your skills and qualifications benefit each company.

Do your homework on every employer on the top 10 list. What are the current trends, news or issues facing the employer? Can you help this business get through its current pain? Targeted networking means getting to know an employer before you even start to make contact.

2. Check for Personal and Professional Contacts

Now that you have 10 employers in mind, find connections who may know someone in these firms. Contact people already in your network, and ask if they know someone who works for your potential employer. This targeted networking strategy now drills down into the people who can put you in contact with someone who has inside information. Use your mutual contact as a referral to start the conversation.

3. Request a Meeting

The third step of targeted networking is to request a meeting with your new contact. Mention your mutual connection as a point of reference. Email the person with some basic information in no more than three paragraphs.

Start by mentioning your friend's name as the person who said you should initiate contact. Talk about the research you're conducting, and express your interest in learning more about the company. Ask the contact for his opinion on an important industry-related problem you're trying to solve.

Finally, ask this new contact for 15 minutes of his time next week. Arrange a time to talk, and consider asking about job opportunities, depending on the receptiveness of the person on the other end of the line. After your conversation, follow up with a quick thank-you email to show your appreciation.

A targeted networking effort may not land you a job right away, but don't let that discourage you. Your focus shouldn't be on immediate gains and gratification, but on strengthening the value of your network down the road.

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