5. How to Network with Powerful People

by MICHAEL C. WENDEROTH

AFTER TWO YEARS working at a multinational, Alex (not his real name) was ready for a job change and knew networking was critical. But his efforts—reaching out to executives inside and outside his company—had resulted in zero opportunities or meetings. More worrisome, barely anyone had even bothered to respond. Alex was doing great work and had strong credentials, so his résumé wasn’t the problem. He was targeting influential, high-level executives, but the response rate was poor. When we analyzed his emails and LinkedIn requests, we quickly found the issue: his approach and his wording. His previous 20 inquiries read: “Dear [Name], I am looking for a new job and would love to get your thoughts over a coffee. Do you have an hour when we can meet?” How do you get the attention…

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Harvard Business Review Special Issues (Digital) - 1 Issue, Fall 2022

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