Reach Out to Your Strongest Contacts With a Specific Ask
In the first three weeks your networking was largely about rebuilding trust and gathering information. In Week 4 it is appropriate to make a more direct ask of your most trusted and well-connected contacts. People who genuinely want to help you often need a specific and clear ask to know how to do so.
In the first three weeks your networking was largely about rebuilding trust and gathering information. In Week 4 it is appropriate to make a more direct ask of your most trusted and well-connected contacts. People who genuinely want to help you often need a specific and clear ask to know how to do so.
Step by Step
Identify your 5 strongest contacts. For returning professionals this should include former colleagues and managers from before your break who know your work well, as well as any new contacts in your target field who have been particularly generous with their time and support.
Send each of them a brief and specific message Template: "Hi [Name], I am entering the final stretch of my search and wanted to reach out one more time. I am specifically targeting [type of role] at [type of company] and am particularly interested in [specific company if applicable]. My [X years] of experience in [field] and my genuine readiness to return give me a strong foundation to contribute quickly. If you know anyone at [specific company] or in that space who might be worth a conversation I would genuinely appreciate an introduction. Thank you for your ongoing support."
Be specific about what you are asking for. A vague ask produces a vague response. Naming a specific company or type of connection makes it easy for the person to help.
Log each message and follow up with genuine gratitude when they come through with an introduction.
Tips Former managers and colleagues who knew your work before your break are particularly powerful advocates because they can speak to your professional capabilities with genuine firsthand knowledge. Always follow up after any introduction even if it does not lead anywhere. Let the person know what happened and thank them specifically.