Start smaller than you think
Start with a former coworker, classmate, instructor, client, vendor, or someone who made a move like the one you are considering. One useful conversation is enough to begin.
CareerOneStop includes networking as one part of a broader job search. The first conversation can simply help you understand which titles are used, what the work is really like, or what your search is missing.
Contact people with a specific question
Pick the person whose experience gives you a specific reason to reach out. A smaller, honest list beats a spreadsheet of names with no clear connection to your search.
- Someone who has seen how you work
- Someone doing the job you are considering
- Someone who made a similar career change
- Someone who knows the company or local market you are researching
Write a message that sounds like you
- Give contextSay how you know the person or what part of their experience caught your attention.
- Ask one thingRequest a short conversation or ask a focused question. Avoid vague lines such as “Can I pick your brain?”
- Make it easy to declineThey may be busy or may not want to talk. Keep the pressure low.
- Do basic research firstDo not ask them to repeat information you could find on the company's website.
Ask questions you can use
- What surprised you after joining this field?
- Which results matter most early in the role?
- What would make someone from my background easier to evaluate?
- Which titles or teams should I include in my search?
- What did you misunderstand before you started?
Follow up like a person
Thank them and mention the part of the conversation that helped. If you act on their advice, send a short update later. You do not need to manufacture a reason to stay in touch.
Keep a private note if it helps you remember the context. The point is to be considerate, not to turn every conversation into a sales process.