Hey, have a look at this thread and others embedded in it for some tips/tricks

https://www.preplounge.com/en/consulting-forum/how-to-network-naturally-and-maintain-relationship-in-longer-terms-8889

Ian has captured many of the points in his answer. The key here is to leverage your existing network to reach out to people that have the most reason to help you. People you are most removed from (e.g., strangers on LinkedIn) also have the least reason to help you out as they do not know you.

I have many templates and resources in my guide to help with your networking goals. Feel free to reach out for a discount code.

Udayan

Hi there,

Since almost 99% of all the applicants get rejected, networking and referrals can really help you!

Before COVID, it was popular to go to networking events, and anywhere where you could meet people with the same interests. Nowadays, networking is often reduced to LinkedIn connections and personalized emails, but some tips remain the same:

• be honest and be yourself

• Build relationships naturally

• remove the pressure of proving yourself all the time

• Don’t be pushy, don’t ask directly for a referral

Networking strategy:

1) If you contact 10 people, 5 will answer, 2 will agree to schedule a call, and maybe 1 person will stay in contact with you and eventually refer you.

Not everybody will be willing to help you. The problem is not you, so don’t let that put you down.

From the previous rule: contact more than 2 people to obtain replies.

2) First contact people you know- you never know who knows who!

3) Follow up with people you’ve emailed and they didn’t answer you until you get a yes or a no.

4) Prepare a strong CV.

In case one of the consultants is willing to help you, he/she might ask you to send your CV, and you should have it ready.

5) You should always be ready to pitch yourself.

Networking is about building strong and long-lasting relationships and having a reputation as a good worker. This kind of bonding requires commitment but also a real drive to do that, based on a real interest, not just the potential merit of a relationship. So be wise in choosing who you want to connect to and who not.

I'd like to point out:

• your goal in networking is to schedule a call with a person. The call will be like a fit part of the interview where you'll be able to present yourself, understand whether you'd be a good fit for the company, and ask questions about the experience/company / any advice (which indirectly can mean the referral)

• Consultants don't always have time to check their LinkedIn, so personalized emails are preferred if your target is a referral

• However, if you're networking in the LI - try to find things you have in common and build your conversation around them.

• Remember that even If now you're networking for your personal interests, one day you might help somebody from your network, too.

It definitely is going to take some time, but if you are going to apply 1 or 2 years from now, don't rush. Spend the time wisely and value the quality of the relationship over the quantity.

Hope that helps!

GB