The hidden job market is a key part of finding a new role. So how do you find out about jobs that aren’t being advertised overtly or, let’s say, haven’t even been thought of yet? Bottom line: It’s through conversations you have with your network over tea. (Yes, we’re controversially swapping coffee for tea. Now that people are down to discussing their favourite beans (OK, guilty too!), tea might save you precious minutes to talk about the important stuff!).
And here are our top tips to help you get over any misgivings and make the most of those networking opportunities.
- Start with someone you know well and/or will say yes to a meeting or phone call. Remember that you are most likely asking for information, not necessarily a job.
- Prepare your questions and plan how you will present yourself and your situation succinctly. Consider letting them know in advance why you have asked to meet or speak.
- A good preparation technique is to ask yourself what you want them to THINK, FEEL and DO as a result of their conversation with you. What is your intention for the conversation?
- Be curious as to what is going on for them by asking questions. Offer to help out if there is any common ground.
- Send a note of thanks afterwards!
- Build your network before you need it, ideally! But if now is when you need it, it is never too late to start.
If you are looking for more in depth pointers, you might want to check out Networking for People who Hate Networking by Devora Zack (2010), Network Like an Introvert by Tim Klabunde (2012), or It’s Who You Know by Janine Garner (2017). And if you haven’t already seen it, Brene Brown’s TEDx Houston talk is well worth a watch too, for its (poignant and funny) insights from her fascinating research on human connection.
Now, who is ready for a cuppa?