There is a fine line between networking or following up on a job lead, and stalking a potential employer. Don’t be the guy in the clown suit that appears outside the window at night.
(Photo Credit: OakleyOriginals/Flickr)
You interviewed for the job of your dreams, and as the manager shook your hand, perhaps he said “great to meet you,” or, “we’ll give you a call.” With the emphasis on networking these days, it may be tempting to keep in touch.
As excited as you may be to get this job, be careful how you choose to keep yourself in the hiring manager’s memory.
1. In the Neighborhood
“I was in the neighborhood” is a great excuse for dropping by to see how things are going. Maybe, and only if you were really in the neighborhood.
Expect to be asked what you were doing in the neighborhood. If you make up a fictitious third cousin twice removed, you will likely be asked where this cousin lives. And if you don’t know the neighborhood as well as you should, you will be caught in a desperate lie and look like a fool.
It might be best not to drop by at all, unless you have business that takes you there.
2. Social Media
Networking via social media is easy if you have good boundaries. You can follow a Twitter feed or like a Facebook page for the company you are interested in working for. Offering to connect on Linkedin is appropriate; if the answer is no, you simply won’t get a response.
Sending direct messages via Twitter, however, may be perceived as coming on strong. And sending a Facebook friend request is out of the question.
3. Email
Email seems so easy, because unlike telephone calls, the recipient may respond at his convenience. Even so, unwanted emails are annoying to many professionals. Unless you have been asked to send an email with specific information, don’t start emailing the manager who interviewed you.
Tell Us What You Think
When do you think networking goes too far? We want to hear from you! Leave a comment or join the discussion on Twitter.
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