How to Build Better Relationships to Land a Job

How to Build Better Relationships to Land a Job Great salespeople know that they key to making a sale is building a relationship with someone. When you're looking for a job it's the same thing because you're essentially selling yourself. This is especially true at higher levels because the market is very competitive. A great way to set yourself apart from the others is to build solid relationships with prospects, employers and contacts. Trust goes a long way and people hire people they like more than they hire people with killer skills. Remember to be of service. Perhaps the most difficult part for people is remembering to be of service when they are on the job hunt. Its not the easiest thing to do when you feel like youre being judged in a job interview and really want the salary that comes along with the position. The easiest way to quell your nerves and make an impression on the interviewer is to remember that your job is to make their job easier. In other words, your skills are there to be of service to them and the company. Coming from that perspective puts your nerves at ease and helps you establish trust with other individuals. Have a genuine interest in the other person. Theres nothing more annoying than a self-serving individual. Its a turn off to recruiters and people in general. Thats why its important to have a genuine interest in the person representing the company. Not just what their position is or their decision-making power, but them as an individual. Great ways to do this are to ask them how they are doing and sending follow-up thank you notes. These things seem simple but they do go a long way when it comes to human interaction. Practice Active Listening When was the last time you were fully connected and engaged with a person you were having a conversation with? Were you truly in the moment or were you worrying about the emails on your phone or picking up the kids from soccer practice? Active listening is easier said than done in the age of constant technological connection, but its a skill worth cultivating for building better relationships. Check Your Body Language Body language says a lot about a person. For instance, having your arms crossed all the time gives the impression that you are blocking other people coming in and connecting with you. Slouching during a job interview gives off the impression that you arent confident. We may not always be consciously aware of this, but on a subconscious level our brains pick up cues from someone elses body language. Its important to remember that non-verbal communication is still communication. For a comprehensive guide on body language make sure to pick up The Definitive Book of Body Language. Become Aware of When to Dial It Back Charismatic and outgoing people are great...until theyve gone too far. Knowing when to dial it back is a great way to encompass all of the aforementioned skills. In reality relationships are a lot like seasons. Theres a time to be the star and a time to take a step back. Theres a time to have fun and a time to be serious. Knowing when to exercise which social cue will take you far. Be Well! Lisa