It's ELECTRIC!

A good robust job search strategy includes strategic networking; in fact, according to Payscale, upwards of about 85% of open positions are filled via networking.

Networking can be a daunting word, but just think of it as being curious about what other people do, so you can determine if it’s something you want to do. A great way to strategically expand your network is through informational interviews. An informational interview isn’t as formal as it sounds; it’s basically a conversation with someone who works in a company or industry that interests you. 

LinkedIn is a great place to find people and request informational interviews. Of course, you should start with whom you know and also people whom your friends know, so they can make an introduction. But, if you don’t have a connection to someone who would be great to include in your network, you’re going to send them a LinkedIn connection request and include a personalized note aka electric slide into their direct messages. 

There are two groups I recommend reaching out to first, higher-level decision-makers and people who are in roles similar to your desired role. Start by using your alumni network because you already have one thing in common, and this makes it easier to reach out.

Higher-level decision-makers: They might have less time to chat with you, but they’ll make a big impact. I’m not saying you should contact the CEO, but try contacting the person who is one level higher than your current role or someone with the word “Director” in their title. Given that they’ll most likely have limited time, make sure you create a list of questions you want to ask. Here are some potential questions:

• What steps did you take to get to where you are in your career now?

• Which skills do you use almost every day?

• What’s your favorite project you've worked on in the last couple of months?

People in roles similar to your desired role: They’ll be able to tell you what it’s really like to work for their company and what the day-to-day looks like. I highly recommend that you ask if the company has a referral program and if the person would be willing to refer you if you find a job within the company that interests you. Many companies pay referral bonuses and the person might enjoy the extra money; I know I would! Payscale reports that referrals make up 40% of new hires, so a referral will significantly increase your chances of getting hired. 

Remember to end every informational interview by asking if there is anyone in the person’s network that they recommend you talk to and if they would be willing to connect you. 

Will sending an informational interview request to a complete stranger feel uncomfortable or awkward? Probably. Will it hurt you or cause you harm? NO! If you still find yourself hesitant to send the note, ask a friend or family member to stay on the phone with you while you press send. 

The worst that could happen is you don’t hear from the person because they don’t frequently check LinkedIn. If you don’t hear from them after a week, it’s on to the next one!

It's time for you to get to it and electric slide! Here is now you send a connection request and include a personalized note. You get 300 characters, so keep it short and to the point!

Here are some sample messages: 

Hi Rihanna! I really enjoy reading your posts about being a boss. Thanks for sharing so much great content! I’m hoping you’ll be able to help me gain more insight into how to become a boss. Do you have 15 - 20 minutes to chat via phone? 

Hi Kamala! I see that we’re both Howard alum. I have a background in retail marketing, but I’m interested in transitioning to government marketing. I’d love your help in better understanding the industry. Are you available for a 15 - 20 minute phone call? 

Hi Bozoma! I have a background in marketing and you have been highly recommended as an expert in content marketing. May I ask you a few questions about content marketing, specifically when it comes to the entertainment industry? 

That’s all folks! Now you know how to electric slide into someone’s direct messages on LinkedIn. Here's your challenge:

Electric Slide DM Challenge: Send a LinkedIn connection request with a personal note requesting an informational interview to three different people within one week of reading this. Connect with me and keep me posted on your progress!

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