Networking Call
How do y’all usually structure your networking calls off a cold email? Do you set a structure for the call off the bat or do you usually just start with a bit about yourself and take it from there?
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Shoot the shit, ask them how they've been -> intro myself-> start asking questions -> 'how can i best position myself to get an interview with your firm' -> resume submit/anyone you can refer.
Usual structure, only shoot the ask if it's a good call.
Agreed with all of this. Being a humble person that's a bit personable goes a long way. Only thing is that I shoot the ask like every time lol
Definitely ease into it. Give them time to know more about you and vice versa. I'm sure it would come off wrong if you were right out the bat super structured. They'll feel like they are being used (even though they are lol). Some like to take the lead, others expect you to. Have an agenda in the back of your mind and be ready to lead the conversation if needed (if it doesn't end up flowing naturally). Honestly, just mirror them and you'll be alright 9 times out of 10.
Oh ok thanks this is very helpful. So I guess you would have to feel for some common ground early on or do some research on this ahead of time (common clubs, etc while at college)?
Not really. I remember reading a rant post just this week about a VP complaining about the way analysts network with him. They would all do the same thing… find any possible common ground and center their convo on it. It really rubs the wrong way when you have someone trying to spark a connection because you were both in different fraternities at completely different colleges...etc. Instead of placing the focus on finding commonalities, just make the effort to learn more about them. People love talking about themselves, they’ll open up and talk if you encourage it. Things like active listening: nod, ask open and clarifying questions. “Did I understand you correctly that…?”… Things like that. Hope it helps.
People like to talk about themselves. Use this to your advantage, especially if you aren’t the most extroverted person.
If it's over the phone I always have a list of questions pulled up in front of me. Typically start by asking how their week's been going and any plans for the weekend, etc. Then a brief elevator pitch about myself, and then go into questions. I try and learn about their experiences and about the firm, the lifestyle/culture, and if the call goes well I ask about recruiting questions. If I feel like I really connected with the person I'll ask if they can suggest key people involved in the recruiting process or anyone else that might be helpful for me to speak to. Try your best to make it conversational and have something to say after they answer, don't just ask question after question like a robot.
Ok thanks, just wondering how you switch from small talk to the pitch. Do you ask them "would it be ok if I talked about myself and afterwards I'd love to hear from you," or something along those lines?
I say almost exactly that. Starting off with your background sets the stage for the rest of the call and lets them know how to best help you out. Don't drag on for too long though, my pitch is under a minute.
I plan some questions but most of the time I just let them talk about themselves and what ever they do at work.Had a guy recently, he connected with me on LinkedIn, I messaged for a call. Agrees stands me up says a business meeting over ran. We rescheduled at a time that suits him. 40 minutes I waited for him. Never showed up.
Guess it depends on the person.Have some questions in mind.
Based on your experience:
1. Should I be the one to ask for an internal referral or is that considered being too blunt and needy?
2. I'm a huge introvert - do I have to set up calls to "successfully network"? Can't we message back and forth on LinkedIn?
3. Could you share an template of the message you sent him?
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