Asking a Client for a Job

Have been in consulting for a handful of years and been mulling over a move to Corporate. I recently worked on an interesting project with a very cool company and saw that they have opening for roles that would be well suited to my skill set. Would it be frowned upon to reach out to the main client contact of that project (privately obviously e.g., via LI) and ask to chat more about the role? If so, how long after the end of the project should I wait to do this?

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Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key points to consider when reaching out to a client for a job:

  1. Timing: It's important to wait a reasonable amount of time after the project has ended before reaching out. This allows for a professional distance and ensures that your interest in the role is seen as genuine rather than opportunistic.

  2. Initial Outreach: When you do decide to reach out, make sure to reference any common ground or shared experiences from the project. This can help make your outreach more personal and less transactional.

  3. Professionalism: Ensure that your communication is professional and respectful. A private message via LinkedIn is appropriate, but make sure to keep the tone formal and focused on your interest in the role and how your skills align with the company's needs.

  4. Follow-Up: If the client contact is open to discussing the role, be prepared to follow up with a more formal application process as directed. If they provide a name of someone else to contact, ask if it's okay to follow up with them in a couple of weeks if you haven't heard anything.

  5. Networking: Use the opportunity to build a relationship rather than just asking for a job outright. Express your interest in the company and the role, and seek advice or insights that can help you better understand the opportunity.

By following these steps, you can approach the situation professionally and increase your chances of making a positive impression.

Sources: "The Ask" - How to?, How do you continue a linkedin relationship?, How to get out of “questions” mode during a networking call, Advice for Non-Targets - Hitting "Apply" Button on LinkedIn Isn't Enough, Two Internships Later: What I wish I Knew While Recruiting! (Toronto)

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

It may be a good idea to reach out to previous client contacts about a position, especially if you’ve already established a positive working relationship. As for timing, it may make sense to wait a few weeks after the project to ensure the dust has settled. A polite LinkedIn message expressing interest and curiosity about the position should work well. Just keep it professional and focus on your enthusiasm for the company and the opportunity!

 
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