Recently I met up with a Director of Engineering at a Fortune 10 tech company. They said they felt “stuck” in place, frustrated with the promotion process and feeling disconnected with the industry. They told me they wanted to test the waters outside of the company, even though they really liked the people on their team.
I nodded: “You’re not alone. I hear this from other clients. Many are doing a parallel path: Looking inside the company for step-up opportunities, and outside as well.”
They said: “Both, yes. I will feel better to know what’s out there.”
I said: “Researching the WHAT – jobs available in the industries that interest you – makes sense as a second step. First, let’s work on the WHO! I don’t know very many leaders who apply online, cold, for senior director and VP roles, and get them.”
They nodded: “What’s your suggestion to start the networking? It all seems overwhelming and takes a lot of time.”
I nodded: “It can be, we shall take it in bits. For our next session, you could outline your Top-20 connectors. These are leaders in your life who are: “First” connections on LI; considered Engineering thought leaders; and have 2500+ connections. Bonus if they post a lot.”
They said: “Ok, then what?”
I said: “You’re going to start following them closely and see what they’re up to as well as who’s following them. This is going to take 4-5 hours initially to decide on the list; then 1-2 hours a week to maintain. After you get a handle on the “goings-on,” reaching out to them will seem natural. Requesting a Zoom meet up to discuss what they’re seeing in the industry, and what possible job leads they may have will also feel natural. What do you think?”
They said: “Anything to make it easier. Have you seen this work for other leaders?”
I nodded: “Yes, I worked with a VP last year; it took him 6 months to get a job. He connected with a boss (a Top-20) from three jobs ago in the first month of his search. Nothing was available then, but there was a lead to his current company 6 months later. My client still had to ace the interviews – which we worked on together – but the lead to the company came from that boss three jobs ago.”
They nodded: “Great. Will decide on my Top-20 by our next session!”
I added: “Oh, one more thing: the Top-20 isn’t just for finding a new role. The conversations will help you feel more connected, in general. Whether you decide to “stay” in your current place or go, I hope you won’t necessarily feel “stuck” in place.”
They smiled: “Gotcha; I see how you snuck that in.”
I smiled back: “Yep!” 😊
How do you build up your network to both widen your influence and seek connections for new opportunities?
