As the number of messages from job seekers on LinkedIn grows, I've become keenly aware of the challenges many face in expressing their needs and using my network effectively. This increased interaction has revealed a crucial gap - the skill of asking for professional help.
I aim to address the common mistakes and guide those navigating the complex process of seeking employment, ensuring that every request is clear, specific, and compelling.
The Challenge of Asking for Help
Asking for help can be daunting, especially for the unemployed, for whom maintaining confidence in the job search is crucial. Many people fear coming across as desperate or vulnerable.
Ironically, instead of making explicit requests, they often provide long explanations without clearly asking what they need. This hesitation may stem from worries about being rejected or seen as a bother, undermining their confidence in their job search process.
Cultivating the Right Mindset
To change your mindset, view asking for help as a skill that shows initiative and the ability to advocate for yourself, which is paramount for fostering confidence in your job search. Understanding the lasting value of maintaining your network is essential, not just when you need something. This approach helps to keep your connections genuine and robust, contributing significantly to your overall confidence in your job search.
Effective Communication
Remember, when making a request, it's essential to be polite, clearly explain the issue, and make a direct ask. Personalise your request by showing that you've done your homework on how the person can help, whether through their role in their organisation or by facilitating an introduction.
Examples of inquiries:
Inquiry about [Specific Topic] - Seeking Your Expertise
Requesting an Introduction to [A Specific Mutual Connection]
Requesting Support - [Specific Task]
Here is a video on how to be more concise.
Expanding and Engaging Your Network
Before you tap into your network, take the time to build and nurture it. This approach will increase your confidence in your job search.
Engage with potential contacts' content to demonstrate your expertise and willingness to contribute.
Do this on LinkedIn, Twitter, and physical or virtual industry conferences to expand your network.
After these events, connect with speakers or attendees and refer to your interaction accurately.
Providing Value
Networking involves both giving and taking. Offering support or knowledge can lead to access to unadvertised jobs through referrals.
Share Expertise: If you're an expert in a field like digital marketing, offer free consultations or webinars. This positions you as a knowledgeable resource, making your network likely to recommend you for relevant opportunities.
Provide Recommendations: Writing a LinkedIn recommendation or endorsing skills boosts contacts' visibility, enhancing their professional outlook while encouraging them to reciprocate by sharing opportunities with you.
Connect People Within Your Network: Introduce contacts who might benefit from each other, such as someone hiring and another seeking employment. This reinforces your role as a supportive connector, which can lead to reciprocal assistance.
The Art of Following Up
Remember to give people space to respond, but don't hesitate to follow up politely if a week has passed without a reply. If there's still no answer or you're declined, move on graciously. No response is not necessarily a rejection; it might mean they missed your message or it wasn't the right timing.
A Call to Proactive Action
In conclusion, the success of your requests can be influenced by being mindful of their timing, relevance, and the rapport you have built.
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Sikemi is a Technology Operations Expert with 15 years of experience across various sectors.
She specialises in technology-led transformations, process improvements, and operational excellence and empowers African tech companies for success.
Holding a Master's in Information Systems from the University of Sheffield, Sikemi is also an active Tech Mentor, guiding future tech leaders.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Sikemi is a Fitness Coach passionate about helping 9-5 professionals stay consistent on their fitness journeys.