Why Every Job Seeker Needs a Networking Letter (and How to Write One)

Have you ever, as part of a job search, reached out to people you know and said, "If you could keep an eye out for me, I'd appreciate it"? This isn't a trick question, and it's absolutely OK if your answer is, "yes."

In fact, many people approach their networks -friends, family, industry contacts, colleagues - in this exact way when looking for a new job. Unfortunately, it's a pretty ineffective tactic.

Now, don't get me wrong, proactively reaching out to people isn't a bad idea.

NOT AT ALL.

In fact, it's one of the absolute best ways to discover unadvertised opportunities, learn more about target jobs, and get on the radar of people who may help you get a foot in the door with a company of interest.

? The problem lies in the approach.?

You see, we all have people all around us who care for us and would likely go out of their way to help us succeed ... if they knew what, specifically, would be most helpful.

We also have people in our lives (including those same ones who care for us) who really don't have a clue what it is that we actually do when we put on pants and show up for work each day.

I mean, sure, if you're a firefighter, a dentist, or a car salesperson, they can probably make some guesses. But what if you're a brand evangelist, configuration administrator, or usability specialist? Will they know what that even means? Perhaps not.

That said, if you approach your people with a simple, "Hey, I'm looking for a new job. Can you keep an eye out for me?" or similar, and they say, "Of course!" (because, of course they will) ... guess what they're going to do after that conversation?

Probably nothing, and here's why: They don't know what they're keeping an eye out for.

It's really that simple. If your people don't know what, exactly, to look out for or how they best support you, they may say they'll help (and genuinely mean it), but they'll be ill-equipped to do so.?

? And this is where the networking letter comes in.?

The networking letter is a tool you can use to spell out, in detail, what you're looking for, and how, exactly, your people can help.

And it doesn't have to be a letter, per se. It can be an email, an InMail, or you could even simply reference it as you chat with a friend or meet for coffee.

Here's how we set up the networking letter for JobJenny.com clients:

1. Start with a friendly introduction

Tell them what's up and ask for their help. Here's what that might look like:

Hi, _____, I hope you're doing well. You may have heard the recent news about layoffs at Peloton. Unfortunately, my role was eliminated as part of this restructure. I'm now on the lookout for my next career chapter and hoping you might be able to help.

2. Share some specifics

Next, tell your people about the skills you want to put to use in your next job:

At Peloton, I was a Marketing Operations Manager. I enjoyed the work a lot and am hopeful that this next job will be one that enables me to put my digital marketing, data analysis, and project management skills to use. I'd also love to manage a small team.

3. List companies (or industries) of interest

Got a few companies on your short list of dream employers? Let your network know!

I'll need to be somewhat open due to the economics of the situation, but I'm particularly interested in staying in wellness tech. (Think companies like Zwift, Noom, and Headspace.)

4. Share potential job titles

Here’s your chance to really help your network know what to be on the lookout for, because the type of job you seek could very well be called different things at different companies.

The most obvious job I'll be targeting is called Marketing Operations Manager. But I've been noticing similar jobs called things like: Marketing Project Manager, Demand Generation Manager, and Sr. Marketing Analyst.

4. Wrap it up with an ask

Now you make a specific request. How can this person best support you? Let them know! Try this:

I'm hopeful that you might a) know of a current or pending job opening that aligns with what I've described, or b) know someone working at a wellness tech company (or other consumer-facing tech products firm) that you might be willing to introduce me to. I'd be most appreciative, and very happy to return the kindness in the future!

Thanks so much, Jenny

And there you have a networking letter. They're straightforward, easy to craft, and could be the perfect tool for mobilizing your people as you look for that next great job.

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