As I stated in Networking (Making the Connection), my focus to building relationships was very beneficial to me. In making connections, and was able to build a genuine relationship. So how do you draw your interviewees out? How do you get them to be candid and open up to you?
I had an opportunity to participate in a development program, and one part of the program involved interviewing senior level individuals in my company. Aha!!!.... The development program was my opening to meet the top leadership and start building relationships.
Before scheduling a meeting on their calendar, I called to ask for an interview, explaining I was part of the development program, and I wanted to specifically interview them. Out of the 15 I requested last year, only one was refused.
Once in the interview, I give a brief introduction of myself, communicating my brand statement (we will blog on that later), detailing to goals of the interview. The two (2) goals of the interviews were first, to communicate my desired career path, and how the development program would help. The second goal was to have a candid, engaging conversation. To engage, I interjected my perspective and tried to relate my experiences to what they communicated to me. I have also mastered the art of small talk, getting the interviewees comfortable with the process and me.
The more interviews I did, the more comfortable I was and was able to add about half of the interviewees to my network. I can go back to them every other month or so, and give updates, or bounce ideas to get a different perspective. In turn, I always offer my availability to help with a project they may be heading. I wanted to show, this is not a one-way street, and that I am willing to work outside of my scope of accountability.
Post in the comments how you maintain career building relationships.
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