Directly asking for job opportunity during first networking call/coffee?

Hey everyone,

I am interested in hearing your opinion on this one. I am currently a sophomore attending a semi-target and my networking style has always been pretty direct and aggressive. Every single networking session would usually end with me directly asking if there are internship opportunities available at the said firm. This has worked well for me in my internship search process last year and I was ultimately able to land an internship at a firm that prior only hired juniors for summer roles. Most other people seem to think this is an absolute faux-pas, and that if they do have positions open and they like you, they will let you know with you asking.

I am curious to what you guys think about this subject and how you guys would personally prime your networking targets on you wanting to work at their firm without straight up asking for it.

3 Comments
 

Are you talking about asking what opportunities are available or directly asking something like "So, when do you want me to start?"

 

"I'm very interested in working for your firm. Any advice on how to accomplish that?"

You're very directly telling them you want a job, but you're asking for advice and not putting them on the spot for a specific opportunity.

 
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