Networking Secret: We all Want to be Important

When you have a special connection to someone, you easily remember small details about them and their life – because you’re interested in them. Now if you make the same effort for your job search networking connections, you will have the same special connection. And it’s easy to do because you are interested and care about them.

NOTE: If you use this technique to manipulate people, it will backfire very quickly. Take the time to build a few strong networking relationships and jobs will come to you!

My close networking group was about 15 people, and they have brought me every job I’ve had in the last 15 years.

When you have this kind of networking relationship–which can happen very quickly–people remember you when they hear about jobs and want to help you.

And of course you return the favor by asking how you can be of assistance to them.

Some relationships, especially husband and wife, share a lot of minutia: Did you take out the garbage, Did you brush your teeth, Don’t you have a tie that matches?

We’re not talking about trying to get your networking partner to disclose whether they brushed their teeth. 

But we are talking about remembering the small things that others mention. It makes them feel special, and makes your relationship feel special as well. It’s as if the two of you share a secret when you remember some of the small details about them. 

This takes a little work, willingness to listen, and a place to keep track of the special things you hear other people say. But the closeness of the relationship this creates will make that all seem worth it. And it will get you a place in their hearts!

So when you talk to someone, remember what they were doing, where you met them, what they said. Remember at least a few the little details of their lives: names of children, interests, when the baby is due, the award they received, the vacation they were about to take, their interest in fly fishing— remember as much as possible of what they share with you.

Then, the next time you talk to them, make your first words relate to that information.

P. S. Check out the best interview guide. Because now that you’re finding hidden jobs, you only have one more thing to do to land your job. Click here and make sure you can do a blow-their-socks-off interview.