Personal introductions lead to professional job interviews
Q: I was introduced recently to a senior vice president at a company that I wish to work for. We had a very nice discussion; and at the end, he handed me his business card. Is it acceptable for me to now follow-up to see if I can schedule an in-person meeting to explore potential opportunities? How should I engage this person?
A: Absolutely, you should follow-up! It is very difficult under normal circumstances to get the name and phone number of someone in a senior capacity that has some decision-making authority. You need to make the most of the contact. You should politely follow-up in email expressing your enjoyment at meeting the person. Indicate that you desire to arrange for an in-person meeting – at the office; or, if possible for coffee somewhere near the person’s office to discuss how you can add value to the organization. Make sure to bring a copy of your résumé and / or bio so you can provide something that can be reviewed for opportunities within the company. Be assertive – not aggressive as to your interest in the company and what you can do for them. Make sure to send a handwritten thank you note subsequent to the meeting. Maintain interactions with your contact every so often to make sure you receive consideration for upcoming opportunities.
Comments and feedback are requested and desired; and you are welcome and encouraged to submit questions to thecareerdoctor.
Debra Wheatman, CPRW, CPCC is the founder and Chief Career Strategist of Careers Done Write, a premier career services provider focused on developing highly personalized career roadmaps for senior leaders and executives across all verticals and industries.
Debra can be reached at -
DWheatman@careersdonewrite.com
http://www.careersdonewrite.com/blog
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