Someone brought up a great topic not long ago. This person has a ‘dream company’ they really want to work for one day. They genuinely see it as a place where they can make a positive impact and develop skills that will help them contribute even more to their career.
They asked me how to network effectively in that organization. Here’s the advice we shared and it works for any organization you might have a genuine interest in.
Reach out to someone credible in the organization, introduce yourself, and let them know that you are interested in working for their organization one day. Share with them why you want to join the organization and how you can contribute. End by asking them if they have any advice on how to find a role in their organization.
This is where a lot of people make a mistake. Instead of simply asking for advice, they ask that person if they can help them get a job. By asking them to help you bypass the formal hiring process, you are demonstrating to that person a desire to get something for yourself and that you want to take shortcuts in finding a role there.
You need to demonstrate instead that you’d like to make a positive contribution. And it has to be a genuine desire to make that contribution. Asking for advice is an indicator that you are willing to do the work required to find a place in that organization based on your merit and qualifications. Because of this, it demonstrates your genuineness in wanting to be part of their company.
From here, take action on the advice you’ve received. Once you’ve done so, kindly report back that you followed through. Reporting back your actions will demonstrate your earnest genuineness in wanting to be a part of their team. Also, people like helping people and it fulfills them when genuine people act on their advice.
Throughout these conversations, seek a natural way to get to know that person better through conversation. Ask them for updates on how things are going for them, follow up on personal items they share with you as well. Don’t force chemistry that may not be there. Politely thank the person and action any advice they may give you.
If there is natural relationship chemistry, a great and meaningful relationship will blossom every time that you connect with that person.
Speaking from experience, having met someone by asking for genuine advice has yielded something far more precious and valuable to me than any dream job could ever give. That is a meaningful relationship with someone who outside of my family is one of the most loveable people I know and has become a mentor, confidant, and true friend. He is the catalyst for having started Best Interview Coaching!
This is the power of genuineness in your interactions.
