It’s not who you know, it’s who knows you!...
One’s ability to get hired or even secure an interview is critically dependent on the extent of one’s professional network and the ability of OTHERS to advocate for YOU.LinkedIn recommendations could be a key to your success: “third-party recommendations are a must for building trust and establishing credibility, especially when they come unsolicited.”
How do you get recommendations?
1. Build relationships
2. Develop trust
3. Do work worthy of recommendations
One way LinkedIn recommendations is to give them first. Then, in the message to your contact that you are recommending, add this sentence: “If you’re comfortable, I’d appreciate it if you’d recommend me as well.”
Get to know other professionals through groups in your community such as the Sarasota Young Professionals Group
Remember: Networking is important but so is authenticity, Character is how you treat those who can do nothing for you. Others WILL notice if you are using them for their connectivity.
Comment below your suggestions for networking!
Some important DON'Ts when asking for recommendations:
ReplyDelete1. Don't send a request for recommendations to 50+ connections
2. Don't connect with someone JUST to ask for a recommendation or ask for a recommendation in the same day you connect with them.
3. Don't Ask for recommendations from people you don’t know or are mildly associated with.
DO give unsolicited recommendations to people who deserve them and not exclusively because you want one in return.
Erica, Great article! I'm not sure if you have heard of the book "The Referral Engine" by John Jantsch. Literally in the first few pages, he talks about how humans are hardwired to provide referrals because it gives thema sense of validation. Since most people are willing to help with referrals and recommendations, the task is really figuring out how and when to ask. I hate getting asked for recommendations by people who I have really never had experience with. They seem to forget that by vouching for them, I am also putting my name on the line.
ReplyDeleteInteresting article on dress codes for faculty. Unfortunately some of my colleagues need to read this :)
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteOkay, Erica! Did you read our (my and Yisell's) presentation material? The book "Trust Agents?" "It's Not Who You Know, It's Who Knows You!" ... is a quote from a book that's quoted in our book. :) It's a slide in our presentation. You are so ahead of the game all the time! Tx, M
ReplyDelete