Who's interviewing who?

A friend recently returned from an interview without a very positive experience. It seems the interviewer forgot something important.

A candidate is also a customer. And so is everyone connected with that candidate.

When you speak or connect with a source (candidate or whomever) you are talking to their network and the network of everyone they are connected to. In the example of my friend, this Fortune 500 company now has a less than stellar image with not only her but everyone she know and touches including:

• Spouse
• Immediate family
• Friends
• Friends of friends
• Former coworkers
• Social media connections

Remember the extent of who you touch. And also remember that the candidate is also interviewing you and your your company.

Relentless

Internal and External Networks

A tale of two networkers from this past week.

My brother, Phil, closed on a new job this week using his internal network. He did all the cool things you need to do when you get a lead: researched the company, found out the leadership, did his homework on who does what there, what they do, audiences and customers. He directed his application to the key person he thought would be making the hiring decision. Then he did something else: he consulted his network. In Phil's case, he talked to his internal network: brother, wife, son, friends. They gave him feedback on the next questions to ask, how to ask them, and reviewed what had worked (and not worked) up to this point.

He used his team to help him square his mind on his next decisions and positioning.

My friend and former work colleague, Amanda, also used her network this week to her advantage. Amanda had a first live, in-person interview with a C-level exec from a manufacturer. After the first phone interview, she reviewed what she had said and heard and collected her thoughts. She called on her external network of associates and connections in the same or similar industries, marketing and sales professionals and business owners. This balanced review gave her the confidence she needed as well as armed her with questions and an approach that helped position the meeting.

We all have these circles around us. If you ask, they will help you. Whether it's closing on a job offer or trying to solve a business problem, your network is there to help. And remember, too, you are a part of someone's network as well so you can return the favor.

Relentless