COVID-19 CAREER TIPS

Tips for Asking Friends and Family for Job Search Help

Asking family and friends for job search help is a great way to hear about job opportunities. Your friends and family care about you, and most of them will gladly help you in any way they can.

However, there are ways to reach out to friends and family that are more helpful than others. Read below for tips on how to network with family and friends, as well as examples of letters requesting job search help.

Tips for Asking Friends and Family for Job Search Help

The best way to reach out to family and friends is through an email or letter. Read below for advice on how to write the most effective letter.

Be specific. Your friends and family will be able to help you better if you tell them what you are looking for. Are you hoping for job leads? Informational interviews? New contacts? Let them know what you want so that they can help you.

Keep it short. Your letter should not be too long; your friends and family are busy and will be more likely to read a shorter letter or email. You might even use bullet points or a list to make it easier to read.

Attach your resume. You might attach a resume to your letter or email to provide more information to your friends and family. This will also allow you to keep your letter shorter.

Send some personalized letters. If you have particular friends or family who you would like to ask a specific favor – perhaps they work at a company you want to work for, or they have a contact you would like to meet – send them individualized letters. This will increase your chances that those people will respond to you.

Be patient. It’s hard to be patient when you’re job searching, but it’s important. Wait a couple of weeks or even a month before sending one short follow-up email. In this email, say you are still job searching, and would still appreciate the assistance. Avoid sounding frustrated or upset.

Be thankful. Individually thank every person who offers you help with your job search. Even if their advice was not particularly helpful, you would want to express your gratitude. Who knows when you will need their job advice again? It is important to remain kind and considerate. Also, remember to offer your help when someone you know needs a new job.

What to Include in Your Letter or Email

You will want to include a brief, friendly introduction to your family and friends.