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I've found promising contacts on Linkedin... now what?

Bam!ChairDance

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So, I've been giving this LinkedIn thing a go as part of my job search, and as the title says, I've found some second degree connections at companies that interest me. The problem is I lack a clear idea of where to go from here.

Normally I would ask for informational interviews, but I already have a good understanding of the industry and the sort of positions I'm after. Asking for general industry advice would, at best, give me redundant information or, at worst, come off as disingenuous.

Another usual tactic is to ask specific questions about the company, but how does one do this without letting slip the real intent? Or is that all part of the ritual, where the recipient knows I'm really after a job but humors me anyway?

Also, I'd love to hear other "tactics" you've used, mainly in terms of contacting these second degree connections

Thanks,
Networking n00b
 

unjung

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If these are second-degree connections, can the person that links the two of you put a good word in for you, or forward your resume, or even forward a message that basically asks if they have any vacancies in your area right now?

On LI I always feel like there is already a certain amount of openness and you can be a bit more direct.
 

yeungjai

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Just because you understand the 'industry' and the sort of positions you're after, does not mean that the company you're looking to apply for is fairly represented by what you understand of the industry or positions. A position that exists at A may not exist at B in the same form, or might vary by title and level (a Systems Analyst in one place, a Systems Engineer at another, for example). I'd say ask for the informational interview, find out what you can from it, and use it as an opportunity to showcase what you already know by drawing comparisons and analogies to demonstrate your knowledge.
Originally Posted by Bam!ChairDance
So, I've been giving this LinkedIn thing a go as part of my job search, and as the title says, I've found some second degree connections at companies that interest me. The problem is I lack a clear idea of where to go from here. Normally I would ask for informational interviews, but I already have a good understanding of the industry and the sort of positions I'm after. Asking for general industry advice would, at best, give me redundant information or, at worst, come off as disingenuous. Another usual tactic is to ask specific questions about the company, but how does one do this without letting slip the real intent? Or is that all part of the ritual, where the recipient knows I'm really after a job but humors me anyway? Also, I'd love to hear other "tactics" you've used, mainly in terms of contacting these second degree connections Thanks, Networking n00b
 

jimmyfingers

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Linkedin is a great thing. I do not think you are leveraging linkedin to its full capacity. As stated above, LI provides openness that allows you to be up front. No need to beat around the bush.
 

stevent

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Message them directly or have your 2nd degree connection introduce you.
 

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