How to Network When You're a Top Leader (and Aren't Sure What to Do)

When you're a senior leader, it tends to be rather expected that you'll be a great networker. I mean, aren't most business leaders great connectors? Influential communicators? "People people?" Not necessarily. And, even for those who are all of the above, when it comes to career or job search networking, it can feel a bit awkward or intimidating.

Why?

Here are a few common reasons:

1. You're out of practice. Perhaps you're that superstar who is so good at what you do that opportunities have just sort of presented themselves along the way. It could be that you have never really had to do much (or any) career networking before.
2. You've been head-down in your work. When you get near the top of the ladder, workload tends to be more than plentiful. So, maybe you've not taken much time to grow or maintain your network beyond colleagues and clients.
3. You're introverted. I hear this one often when someone explains why they're not networking. Wellll, guess what? I'm an introvert, too. Yep. But I put myself out there regularly to stay current and connected.
4. You worry about appearing disloyal to your employer. I mean, when you're the boss, you certainly don't want word to get out that you're sniffing around for potential opportunities. I get it. But if that means you avoid coffee meetings or catchup calls altogether, you're shortchanging yourself.

No matter your reason(s) for feeling weird or reluctant about networking, there's no overstating how beneficial meaningful connections and conversations can be when you're looking to make a job or career change.

So, let's break this down.

If you're a business leader gearing up for (or already in) a job search, here are my five best tips for making networking survivable and productive at the least. (And, who knows, you might even enjoy the process!)

? Be willing to do it

This may sound a bit silly, but willingness is the crucial starting point. You can say, "Oh gosh, I really should do more networking" all day long but that's not at all the same as sending that email, making the call, inviting someone out for coffee or lunch. I mean, I really should be at the gym right now. But if I don't drive my buns down the street and work out, I can pretty much write off those abs of steel, right?

? Get clear on your professional brand and your goals

Sure, you may have great people in your network who meet with and say, "You know what? I think you'd be great at <perfect next job>. Let me introduce you to so-and-so." But you can't count on people to do that heavy lifting for you. You're going to do yourself a huge favor if you can articulate your key strengths, the type(s) of role(s) you're targeting, and specifically how the person you reach out to can help you. So spend some time on that before the outreach.

? Make it insanely easy for them to say yes

This is an especially important tip if you're cold approaching people that don't know you (yet) or those you don't know well. Let's run through an example. Say you're sending someone an InMail or email asking if they'd be willing to do an informational interview with you. Keep it short, get to the point quickly, and give them instant opportunity to book the meeting. Here's an example:

"Hello, Aria,

I'm Jenny Foss a friend of Zane Bradley. He mentioned that you were heading up UCLA's Career Services office. I've been hearing amazing things about some of the programs you've launched for new grads. Might you be willing to have a brief conversation with me in the next couple of weeks? I'd love to learn more.

I imagine you're quite busy, but if you are open to a 15-minute chat, I'd really appreciate it. Here's a link into my calendar if helpful: <INSERT LINK>*

Thanks so much for considering, Aria! And congrats on the program you've built!"

? Be curious, authentic, and generous

I'll bet you could go to your InMail right now find at least one cheesy, salesy, disingenuous, or overstepping message waiting for you. They're everywhere. And, I'm sure you'll agree with me on this: They don't work. As you begin your outreach, vow to not be "that message sender."

Approach people with genuine interest and curiosity.

Ask thoughtful questions.

See if there's something you could help them with.

Care.

? Follow up

You know what people really love? Feeling helpful. Feeling like they've contributed. Feeling like an expert. That said, someone offers a suggestion that works, or makes an introduction that leads to success, loop right on back and tell them! This also provides you with the perfect opportunity to keep the conversation going with someone who may be a valuable resource now, and ongoing. (Just remember to also offer to help them!)

Your Best Networking Tips

And now, I'd love to hear from you. If you've got a networking tip to share, please feel free to post it in the comments below! ↓

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