Looking for Work? FRANK Can Help
It was my pragmatic DNA that got me into Talent Acquisition and Career Coaching. I always thought, if I can just help enough other people find work, I'll never have to work myself. So far, it's working for me. After a decade or so of celebrating other people's employment, I know for sure that networking is the way to find new work. And no one networks better than FRANK. Who's FRANK, you ask? I'll tell you. Or, maybe, you tell me...
FRANK is a system of networking that keeps your search organized and your network corralled. It's easy, too. To get started, open a spreadsheet or notebook and write these letters across the top, BINGO style: F R A N K.
Under the "F" list the names of five to seven Friends.
Under the "R" write down five to seven names of people you're Related to.
"A" is for Associates: Anyone you've ever worked with or known through work.
The "N" in this game stands for Networking Groups. Think beyond that Employment Group you meet with once a month, and identify other groups of people you see on a regular basis. Book club, a class you're enrolled in, the la crosse or hockey parents you sit with at your kids' games... these are all Networking Groups. Who do you know?
"K" stands for Key Connections. As you look back over the other 4 columns, who is in the best position to help you? Who knows you best, knows what you do, works at a target company, or might otherwise be a good resource for you in your search? Highlight or circle the names of your Key Connections.
Now, jump back to LinkedIn and start connecting with the people on your list. Look them up, reach out and say hello, let them know you're looking for work, and ask what they are up to. Is there any way you can help them move something forward? If so, do so. Right away. Paying it forward always pays off, and it's the right thing to do, and people appreciate it, so do that.
Once you've connected with someone, cross their name off your list and add another in that column. Some lists are easier to keep up with; others will stretch your network and your networking skills. For example, my sister became friends with the delivery person at work, so she put that person's name under Associates. In the Relatives category, it doesn't take long to move outside your usual circle. Your nephew's girlfriend's cousin is a Relative. What's their name again? Write it down.
Go slow, be friendly, stay organized and... keep in touch! Once you've found a new gig, thank the people who've helped you along the way, and continue to connect with them. When you need them, it's great to have relationships with people you like and respect. And when you don't need them, it's even better.
