Author: Lavie Margolin, Career Coach
Why would someone agree to meet with you in their free time for a networking meeting, when you are the one who wants something? Let’s take a look at six reasons why someone would be open to meeting with you in order to make the process of asking for help less intimidating:
1) People enjoy talking about what they do- How often does a Computer Programmer, Accountant or Financial Services Representative find someone who wants to hear every detail about their working life? Not often. People enjoy talking about what they do and having someone want to listen.
2) Goodness of others- Although when we are out of work, the work can seem especially difficult, many people are just glad to help. Trust in the kindness of others.
3) Networking, of course!- If I help you now, I can ask you for help later.
4) Money- If someone ends up referring you for a job at their company, they may get a referral bonus from their employer. It also makes them look good in the eyes of their employer by finding a great candidate.
5) Meet someone new and get out of the office- Work can get boring sometimes and it can be interesting to meet someone new, hear their story and get out of the office for a bit.
6) Free lunch- Or at least a free cup of coffee!
Keep these six reasons in mind as you ask others for a meeting. As you can see, it can be a mutually beneficial experience for both of you.
About the Author: Lavie Margolin is a New York-based Career Coach and the author of Lion Cub Job Search: Practical Job Search Assistance for Practical Job Seekers. To learn more, go to Lavie’s website, Lion Cub Job Search:www.Lioncubjobsearch.com