How to Ask for Support With Your Job Search
Written by Valentine Fabre
While you might be doing everything you can to assist your job search, you may also want to consider reaching out to your community for support. According to a research, many job-seekers fail to leverage their networks to unlock their next position, highlighting the importance of getting in touch with contacts and asking for their help.
There are multiple ways to utilise your social circles on your way to employment, one of the most effective being word-of-mouth. Here are a few tips on how to ask for the support of those around you.
Look for a Mentor
An effective mentor will be an industry professional, an academic expert or even your line manager, willing to guide you through your job search by way of advice, connections and honest feedback. Of course, fostering a relationship with a mentor will require research into people of interest within your industry, as well as considering what it is you can offer in return — such as insights on consumer mindset, youth culture and your own connections.
Once you have found someone you would like to be your mentor, you can make a respectful request for their support. Weave it into an introduction email, that includes how you found them, the reason you are getting in touch, some details about your background and ask for an initial conversation.
You can find templates on The Glowth Academy.
Find Helpful Connections on Social Media and In-Person
While not every industry expert makes for a suitable mentor, you should still seek to connect with professionals relevant to your practice (or even outside of it, as outsiders’ perspectives can also inform and enrich your work).
Online, LinkedIn will be your main source for expanding your network, but even platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram are valuable channels through which you may find and connect with other industry professionals. Browse the employee pages of companies you are interested in, or skim through your explore pages on Instagram and TikTok. Ask to connect with the standouts, and send a tailored message expressing your appreciation of their work.
Do not focus solely on senior professionals, who are less likely to see or interact with you online — instead, look for emerging talent. Granted, they might be able to offer you a different level of advice and industry reach than more seasoned creatives, but they can support and relate to your journey as you grow together professionally.
Social media also makes the ideal springboard for networking, as it allows you to look for in-person events such as alumni gatherings, summits and workshops. Before attending, however, remember to do your research, be proactive and lead with authenticity.
Find Experts Services
Many platforms and services help job seekers find support throughout their careers.
From online spaces managed by industry experts that allow you to interact with them directly, to networks where you can ask for support with applications, to online courses and specialised training, assess the current stage of your career to find the help that you need.
Explore our many courses and training at The Glowth Academy and book a coaching session with one of our experts now.
Written by Valentine Fabre