You are playing a game of "Connect the Dots." This is also known as "networking."
Your Goal?
Connect with people at a company you like to ask for their advice and assistance.
Why is this important?
Once you are connected to someone at the company you like, you can:
- be introduced to leaders at that company;
- learn from them about what the work is actually like every day so you can know if it is something you want to pursue;
- know how their hiring process works and what you can do to do to get a job there; and
- learn what kind of education you need (if any) before you apply at the company.
*This is very different than submitting a job application online with no connection to the company.
Option A:
If you have connections at a company you like:
- call them! (do not text them)
- ask them for time with them to learn more about their company and get their advice.
You > Company Contact
Option B:
If you do NOT have connections at a company or within an industry you like, you will have an extra step.
You > Person You Know > Company Contact
You want to connect with people who:
- know you,
- like you, and
- want to help you.

Example Contacts to Ask:
- agency staff / case manager;
- agency volunteers, donors, Board Members;
- teachers, pastor, mentor;
- friends, family, etc.

What do you say?

To connect with people about a particular industry:
- Ask: "Who do you know in the [insert industry you like here] industry?"

Example: “Who do you know in the healthcare industry?”
To connect with people about a particular company:
- Ask: "Who do you know at [insert the name of the company you like here]?"

Example: “Who do you know at ABC Company?”
Ultimate action step to hit your goal:
"Would you be willing to connect me with them?"
Or
"Would you be willing to help me get connected with them?"
Bonus Challenge: Call the CEO of a company you like and ask them for 10 minutes of their time to get their advice.

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