How do you know with whom to connect online?
- In mailing lists and discussion boards, look for postings by someone who seems to be knowledgeable about the topic being discussed. Note his or her email address at the top, and look for signature information citing their organizational affiliation, position in the organization, and more complete contact information.
- In a social networking site, limit yourself to contact with whom you can claim a valid (if limited) connection -- you are both former employees of X, you are both graduates of X, you are both members of X association, mailing list, or discussion group. If you cannot make any of these claims but you know someone in their network who is also in your network, ask that person to introduce you.
- Once you have identified some persons you want to contact, prepare your initial contact carefully. Be professional and especially polite, and double-check for grammar and spelling errors before sending your message.
- Be sure to contact the person directly and not through the list.
- Be concise. Identify yourself, state why you are contacting this person, and list some of your interests and where you noticed some correlation with his or her interests as noted in the postings you've read.
- Do NOT send this person a copy of your resume. You are networking, trying to establish a relationship that extends far beyond just "please help me find a job." A resume will blow everything to bits at this point. Just relax and let the relationship build to a point where a resume will be requested or you feel comfortable asking for advice on preparation.
- Request a follow-up to this email, via phone or email. Give your contact the choice of how to continue.
- If you are trying to make a connection through a site such as Facebook or LinkedIn, I suggest you add a personal message to your request. Again, keep it concise but also cite your connection, such as "I recognize you from last year's alumni gathering at X university. May I add you to my professional network?" This type of introduction and request will garner many more positive responses than the standard "may I add you to my professional network" generated by these services.
Need More Info or Assistance?
We also have information on Networking and Support Groups and How to Network Online(and Why). The resources on our page for Job Search Guidance may also have helpful ideas for you.