Completing your Profile on Linked In is a great first step. However, the whole point of being on Linked In is to build your network and engage new contacts, particularly when you’re in a job search.
Asking for help from your contacts and reaching out to new people on-line can be intimidating. Here are three sample scripts for common situations that will help you to build your connections on Linked In:
1) Reaching out to a contact in your network requesting an introduction to one of their contacts:
Hi Sally, How are you? It has been a while since we’ve connected. How did things work out with the new house? Things are going well at Acme Company, however, after 8 years it’s time to start considering other options where I can grow my skills. XYZ is a company that I am pursuing and through my research on Linked In, I noticed that you’re connected to Bill Smith who works in IT there. Would you be willing to make an introduction? I would love to learn more about XYZ and gain some insight into the current culture there. Much thanks and hope that your Fall is off to a great start!
2) Reaching out to a 2nd level contact directly:
Hi Penny, We’ve never met, but have a mutual contact in common – Bill Smith at Acme. Your profile came up when I was doing research on XYZ Healthcare Company. Given your background with them, I was wondering if you might be willing to connect with me to share your insights on the company as I am very interested in learning more. Currently, I am a Project Manager working at ABC Insurance Company, but would like to make a transition to the healthcare industry in the next 6 months. Any suggestions you could provide would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for your time.
3) Requesting a Linked In Recommendation from a current contact
Hello Bill, How has your summer been? Mine has been a bit of a whirlwind as I am currently in the midst of a career transition. On that note, I am writing to ask if you would be willing to write me a recommendation on Linked In? As one of my former Mangers at XYZ Company, your endorsement would be very meaningful to me. I am currently seeking Supervisory roles in the IT field, so speaking to my experience as a supervisor of the Helpdesk team would be particularly relevant. In addition, I am looking at regional roles, so if appropriate, mentioning my skills related to managing a virtual team would also be most helpful. Much thanks in advance and please let me know if there is anything that I can do for you. Have a great August!
While no method guarantees a 100% response rate, most people want to help others when they are able. You may be surprised how many positive responses you receive when you reach out in a sincere, respectful manner. Also, be sure to keep in touch with your new contacts and pay it forward when the opportunity arises.
Happy networking!