Making Initial Contact
Your main objective with an initial contact with someone is to secure a face-to-face meeting with him or her. If you already know the person just pick up the phone and start a conversation. If you do not know the person directly (i.e., someone referred you to them) you might prefer to write to them first, then call a few days later. Be sure to mention the name of the person who referred you. This will make the person more comfortable with your letter or call.
A good way to ask for a face-to-face meeting with someone that you don’t know directly, is to mention that you are interested in working in their field and you would value the opportunity to talk with them about how they achieved their success. By focusing on professional consultation, you may reduce their hesitation to speak with you.
Remember that professional people make appointments. Don’t just walk in and expect to be seen. If you are unable to secure an appointment, you can still use the call to gain information. Remember to balance your desire to learn about the company with the necessity to make a positive professional impression. In other words, don’t be annoying.
Writing a brief letter is another way to initially contact a potential member of your network. You probably will not need to write a letter to a friend or business colleague, but if you do, keep it short and perhaps include your resume. When you are writing to someone you do not know, do not include a resume. Explain who referred you and your interest in meeting them. Once you have sent your letter, make a note in your planner to call them.