Q&A Your Way To Success

You may be tempted to focus your efforts on attending networking mixers or applying online for new positions because these strategies seem straightforward. However, creating personal connections through one-on-one meetings can be a more effective use of your time and energy.

For career changers, relationships can begin with informational interviews. These meetings provide insight about a new field or industry and its specific suitability for your career goals. They also offer a non-threatening environment to practice interview skills since a real job isn't on the line. Finally, informational interviews can give you an edge on potential job opportunities that may surface during the conversation.

Entrepreneurs can use scheduled one-on-one meetings to learn about each others' services and products. Gathering this information will help you identify leads or useful contacts for each other that can ultimately create closed sales. By getting to know other business owners on a personal as well as professional level, you will also be able to vouch for their professionalism, integrity and value when you refer them to others in your network.

The keys to creating successful connections include adequate preparation and curiosity. Consider the following steps to take before, during and after your meetings to make the most of the opportunity.

Before the Meeting

Think about what you want to know and then write down no more than 10 questions to take to your meeting. Coming with prepared questions shows your professionalism and demonstrates your respect for the other person's time.

• Sample informational interview questions for career changers:
  • Describe a typical work day.
  • What education, training or background is required for your position?
  • What are the key skills needed to be successful?
  • How do people typically find work in this field?
  • What advice do you have for someone breaking into this field or industry?
• Tip: When scheduling an informational interview, request 20 minutes of the contact's time. People generally feel comfortable committing to this amount of time, and you will be able to gather a good deal of information.

• Sample questions for a networking meeting with a fellow entrepreneur:
  • How did you get into this business?
  • What products/services do you provide?
  • What makes your offering unique?
  • Describe your ideal customer.
  • What are some success stories that I can share with people I meet?

During the Meeting

To start your meeting on the right foot, always be punctual. Thank contacts for their time and confirm how much time they have available for the meeting.

Remember to be curious. This meeting is not the time to impress them with your skills and accomplishments. Rather, stay focused on what the other person has to say.

Make time to ask the other person what you can do for them. This demonstrates that you are vested in the relationship and fosters a clear understanding of what you can offer now and in the future.

After the Meeting

Continue building goodwill by taking the following steps:

• Thank your contacts for their time either with a short written note or e-mail.
• Follow up immediately with any promised actions such as providing an updated resume or making an introduction to a potential lead.
• Offer to be of service in the future and keep the lines of communication open.

About Merideth Mehlberg and Fresh Perspective Coaching

Merideth Mehlberg, founder of Fresh Perspective Coaching, helps her clients move towards new direction and meaning in their work, their businesses and their lives. She encourages her clients to dream big, and then she provides the compassion, insight, structure and support they need to transform their vision into reality.

If you could use assistance in taking your career or business to the next level, contact Merideth at 510.864.0249 or mer@freshperspectivecoaching.com to schedule a complimentary consultation and sample coaching session.

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