Tips for Networking and Providing Feedback

1:1 coffee chats are the best way to network ☕ Here's how I turned them into interviews at companies like Microsoft, LinkedIn, and Amazon. My 9-step formula for virtual & in person coffee chats: (I did this with acquaintances, old coworkers, and complete strangers at my target companies to get job referrals)  1/ Watch the Clock Before you start the conversation, thank the other person for their time and confirm how much time they have. Don't be the person who goes over the allotted meeting time by assuming. 2/ Nail Your Intro This is your elevator pitch that should include these 3 things: - Brief background on who you are - Why you wanted to meet with them - Your goals 3/ Ask Great Questions Come prepared with questions. Some ideas: - their background/role - challenges they overcame - specifics about their company, culture, product, etc. 4/ Show You're Worth It When you talk about your experience, tie it back to how it relates to the role/team you're interested in at that person's company. Does the role require managing multiple clients? Great! Weave in how you've done something similar. 5/ Ask for Feedback It's ok to ask for feedback and if the other person thinks you're a fit for certain roles or the company. If they think there's a skills gap, ask for their advice on how to bridge it. 6/ Ask for Intros "Is there anyone else at your org or outside the org that would be helpful to talk to?” The best opportunities can come from this ask. The other person might intro you to 1-3 other people in their network. 7/ Offer to Help Them Don't just ask how you can help. Ask them what their goals are for the year. Then use that information to see how you can help. 8/ Winding Down At the end of the call, thank them for their time. Then ask if it's ok to keep them updated so you have a reason to reach out in the future. Don’t forget to send a thank you note after the call. 9/ The Follow Up If they gave you any advice (resume tips, resources to look into), do it and follow up to let them know you did it. This is the best way to keep the conversation going beyond the first call and establish trust. Important: Use this as a guide, not a script. Not all your 1:1 coffee chats will happen this way but having structure is helpful. Don't expect to land a referral on the first meeting either. It may take several interactions before someone is comfortable enough to do that. Give this strategy a try and level up your networking game! --- Reshare ♻ to help someone’s job hunt. And follow me for more posts like this.

We've all been in situations, both professionally and personally, where someone acts abrasively or somewhat inappropriately, right? So, how do you provide constructive criticism or feedback? How do you provide the necessary feedback to make that person more "aware" and to alter their behavior for the better in the future? So here's some thought on how to approach: 1️⃣ Start with Positives: Acknowledge strengths and achievements. This sets a positive tone and helps the person be more open to feedback. 2️⃣ Be Specific and Objective: Pinpoint the behavior or outcome you're addressing. Specificity provides clarity and objectivity. 3️⃣ Focus on Actions, Not Individuals: Center your feedback on specific actions or behaviors rather than the person's character. This helps to keep the conversation focused on improvement. 4️⃣ Offer Solutions, Not Just Problems: Provide constructive suggestions for improvement. This shows that your intent is to support growth, not merely criticize. 5️⃣ Choose the Right Time and Place: Timing matters. Address criticism in a private and conducive environment to avoid unnecessary discomfort or embarrassment. 6️⃣ Encourage Two-way Communication: Foster an open dialogue by inviting the recipient to share their perspective. This promotes mutual understanding and collaboration. 7️⃣ Be Mindful of Tone and Language: Use a positive and encouraging tone. Avoid accusatory language and focus on collaboration rather than fault-finding. 8️⃣ Follow Up with Support: After the conversation, express your willingness to assist in their improvement journey. Offer resources or guidance to ensure they feel supported. We all would like to embrace a culture of continuous improvement for both personal and professional development. Constructive criticism is a powerful tool that, when delivered thoughtfully, can propel us to new heights. Constructive criticism is about growth, not fault-finding. By approaching it with empathy and a shared commitment to improvement, we create a culture where everyone can thrive. How do you approach giving constructive criticism? I know I have not been perfect over my career and welcome others thoughts and suggestions. #ConstructiveCriticism #ProfessionalDevelopment #ContinuousImprovement

Why is feedback often resisted? 🤔 I often see people get defensive when receiving feedback and shy away from giving feedback. Feedback is a GIFT.   When done well, it can be a huge support in strengthening a relationship.  The best way to share feedback is to INVITE it. 5 SIMPLE STEPS TO SHARE FEEDBACK EFFECTIVELY: 1) Ensure the receiver is in a good energy space 2) Share it soon after you notice the behavior so you have a fresh example 3) Don’t direct the feedback at the person, inquire around what you were noticing they might have been experiencing so they have a chance to share their perspective.  For example, “I noticed you seemed a little uncomfortable in that customer meeting...how were you feeling?” This helps make it less personal so the receiver doesn’t immediately get defensive and feel ashamed that they did something wrong. Any change is also more likely to happen if it comes from the person themselves recognizing it and desiring it based on how they felt. 4) Navigate how you proceed depending on their response and share openly why you are asking #3 5) Ask for permission & start with the positive. Then, after they share their perspective, see if they are open to receiving some feedback from you on what you observed.  For example, I love how you opened the meeting by creating some positive energy with the customer.  It made me feel energized too and I felt a greater connection being formed.  Like you just shared with me, I too noticed you feeling uncomfortable with the materials you wanted to present.  Is there anything I can do to support you in that prep so you feel more confident in the next meeting? The key to effective feedback is to create a space where someone doesn’t feel attacked and takes something super personal. Couch the constructive in the positive. Not shying away from feedback and delivering it well is critical to build trust, connection, grow, and positively move forward together, both in business & in life! Thoughts? When have you experienced feedback that you took and it made a positive impact on you and your relationships? What did you learn that can help others? 👇 #PersonalDevelopment #Communication #EmotionalIntelligence

In my previous post about being "invisible" at work, many of you asked for a deeper dive into 'humblebragging' and standing out without overshadowing others. The Art of the Humblebrag: 1. Frame It as a Learning Experience ⤷ Tip: Instead of "I led a project that exceeded targets," try "I learned so much leading a project that taught me X, Y, Z." 2. Credit the Team ⤷ Tip: "We did an amazing job on this project. I'm so thankful for my team's hard work and effort." 3. Pair Achievements with Gratitude ⤷ Tip: "Honored to have led a workshop today. Grateful for the engaging participants who made it enriching." Boosting Your Visibility 1. Lead/Engage in Workplace Events ⤷ Tip: Offer to be part of panels, workshops, lead a tech talk or team-building activities. It's a great way to showcase soft skills. 2. Share Your Wins/Progress ⤷ Tip: Share your projects/wins, their progress, and outcomes on Wiki, slack, email, etc. It can be a bi-weekly/monthly email update or a project-end review. 3. Network Intentionally ⤷ Tip: Regular coffee chats with peers, seniors, and cross-department colleagues can do wonders. Building relationships is crucial. 4. Seek Feedback and Act on it ⤷ Tip: After a presentation or meeting, ask for feedback. It shows you value others' opinions and are on a quest to improve. Remember, it's not about being loud, but about being valuable. Be genuinely proud of your achievements and eager to share your insights. This way, you’re not just bragging; you're contributing. What are your favorite tips to increase visibility in the workplace? P.S. DM me if you want to chat about increasing your visibility or book time with me 1-on-1 (link in comments) ----- ✔️ Finding value in my content? Follow me and hit that 🔔 icon. ♻️ Think others could benefit? Don't hesitate to share! 👉 Together, we can pave your path to that dream job or promotion.

In September 1951, mother and father met at a college dance. As the story goes, my father introduced himself: “I’m Howard Hogshead from Hudson.” My mom burst into laughter. “Nobody has the last name HOGSHEAD!!” Hey, some of us have it lucky when it comes to memorable first impressions! Even if you’re not lucky enough (haha) to have the last name “Hogshead,” you already have certain qualities that make you memorable and different in your social interactions, so you can make positive first impressions and build relationships quickly. Let’s take a dreaded zone for first impressions… a big ol’ networking dinner. Chicken-or-fish type of event. You’ve just walked in. The room buzzes with prospective clients and respected leaders. You want to introduce yourself… buuuut how? * 1. Find one way to add value to the conversation. From the moment you meet someone, ask yourself: *“How can I add value to this person?”* What problem is your listener facing? And how can YOU help them overcome it? Start by learning about their challenges. What are they hoping to get out of the event? • New relationships? • Bonding with team? • Better understanding of new technology? • Inspiration? * 2: Understand how the world sees you. When you feel your most confident, are you communicating with humor? Or emotional connection. Or quiet support? Your personality already has specific patterns of communication that shape how people perceive you. The most fascinating people aren’t necessarily sparkling and witty— they understand how to build an authentic connection. When you apply your own natural style, my research shows that people are more likely to listen to you, and remember you. * 3: Ask real questions. Smart questions are worth more than smart answers. Examples of REAL questions: • “What’s been the most successful boost to your business in the last year?” • “What’s stressing out your team these days? Have you found any solutions?” Sure, you can ask where they’re from, but questions about geography rarely get you very far. * 4: Consider what people will already be thinking and talking about. It’s much easier to immediately connect with someone if you already know what they’re already pondering, struggling with or excited about. How can you become part of their current mindset? * 5: Commit to a strong start. The purpose of a conversation is not to KILL time, but to GROW a connection. If you’re not going to commit to a strong start, it’s better to not introduce yourself in the first place. A weak start leads to a weak first impression. The first moments of an interaction offer your window of opportunity for connection to bring purpose to the conversation. Remember: Every time you introduce yourself, you’re either adding value or taking up space

"Thank you so much for trusting our relationship enough to say this to me. Can we meet to talk more about this? I'd love to hear more of your ideas." 👆 This was the response a Mindful Improv Community member recently got from their boss after giving feedback about the manner in which several employees were let go. It was a vulnerable situation and tensions were running high. The person who came to me was in the tough situation of needing to sell the decision/calm the fears of his team... while also having legitimate concerns and frustrations himself. Here's the advice I gave him: --> Balance your feedback with honesty, clarity and kindness. --> Be concise in your email and ask for face time where you can elaborate further. --> Tie your concerns back to the company's stated values. --> Express gratitude, if you can do that sincerely. This is my tried and true recipe for saying things -- even hard things -- in a way that they are receivable and actionable. You might get applause for dunking on someone in a conversation, but you won't make a difference or move the needle forward on the changes you care about that way. ***People can't learn and be defensive at the same time.***

Why you're not getting support from your network contacts + how to fix it RIGHT AWAY 85% of professionals find networking to be crucial to their career growth, yet many still struggle to get the support they need from their network contacts. Frustrating, isn't it? You spend time and energy, only to be met with silence or even rejection when you reach out for help. Here are my top tips when seeking support from your network, so you can start getting the responses and assistance you need, right away: 1. Make the ask low risk: Avoid asking for favors that would require the person to put their credibility on the line, especially since they don't know you well. Instead, ask for something that doesn't involve a significant commitment from them.            ✅ "I noticed you have experience in the field I'm interested in. Would you mind sharing your thoughts on the industry trends?"  ❌"Can you vouch for me and recommend me to your company without knowing my work?" 2. Make the ask reasonable: Don't request more than what the person might be willing or able to provide. Stick to what's within their capacity or expertise.            ✅"Would you mind introducing me to your colleague at XYZ company?"  ❌"Can you get me a job at XYZ company?" 3. Make the ask precise: Be specific with your request to avoid confusion and make it easier for the person to help. ✅"Could you review my resume and provide feedback on the 'Experience' section?" ❌"Can you help me with my job search?" 4. Do your homework: Before reaching out, make sure you have checked available resources, such as job boards, and that you understand the person's background and expertise. ✅"I've looked through the company's job board and found a position that aligns with my skills. Given your experience at the company, could you share some tips on the application process?"  ❌"I want to work at your company. Can you help me find a job?" 5. Be direct with your intent: Clearly state the reason for your request and what you hope to achieve. ✅"I'm reaching out because I'd like to learn more about career opportunities in the AI field."  ❌"I was hoping to chat with you about your work." 6. Be mindful of their time: Keep your message concise, and be aware of the time it may take for them to read and act on your request. ✅"I understand you're busy, so I've attached a brief summary of my background and what I'm looking for." ❌"Can we schedule a two-hour call to discuss my career plans?" 7. Be grateful: Show appreciation for their time and any assistance they can provide. ✅"Thank you for considering my request. I truly appreciate your time and any insights you can share." ❌"I hope you can help me out." What am I missing? Comment down below 🔁 Repost if this is useful. ----- Follow me, tap the (🔔) on my profile Omar Halabieh You will be notified the second I post. Let's unleash your leadership potential and fast-track your career 🚀 #leadership #career #management #networking

“Do you have any feedback for me?” is one of the most inefficient ways to ask for feedback. And yet we still do it. Here’s how to ask for feedback that will actually help you in 5 easy steps. Step 1 - Pick your sources: Expand your feedback horizons. Instead of only leaning on your manager or close peers, why not tap into the wealth of knowledge from others around you? Chat up people from different teams, those a few steps ahead career-wise, or cross-functional buddies you collaborate with. Step 2 - Set the stage: Treat feedback like the gift it is—someone's taking their time to help you out, after all. Show some love and let them know how much you appreciate it. And hey, don't ambush them. Give a heads up that you're looking for feedback, but let them take their time to think it over. Step 3 - Formulate your request: Be clear and straight to the point about what you're looking for feedback on. Whether it's a presentation, an email, or how you handled a situation, asking specific questions like "What about X did you think was Y?" can help zero in on what you really want to know. And don’t drag your feet; ask while the details are still fresh. Step 4 - Reflect and process: Keep an open mind. Feedback might sting a bit if it's pointing out where you can do better, but it's all about growing. Take your time to think it over, and if something isn't clear, just reach out again. It's all part of the process. Step 5 - Close the loop: Let folks know you’re actually using their advice. When you circle back and tell them how you've applied their feedback, it shows you’re not just listening but acting on it. It makes them feel part of your journey and more likely to help you out again in the future. What else would you add? For a limited time only, I removed the paywall from my in-depth article on this topic: https://lnkd.in/gPipg9dn #softwareengineering #leadership #feedback ♻️ Please repost if you found this useful 🤝 I help engineers and leaders become high performers, dm me “CONNECT” to learn more

Here’s a hard truth: your ability to have hard conversations is also your ability to have what you want. It may sound basic, but personally or professionally, if you’re don’t communicate what you expect, if you complain about someone rather than provide feedback (when things go well or not), you’re not allowing yourself or your relationships the ability to transform. So, this week. And maybe next. Annnd maybe the one after that…how about we all lean into the radical candor and have those tough convos: 👉Initiate Honest Conversations: Initiate open and honest conversations with colleagues. Speak up about your thoughts and feelings, and encourage others to do the same. 👉Listen Actively: Practice active listening during meetings and one-on-one discussions. Show genuine interest and ask follow-up questions to gain deeper insights. 👉Provide Constructive Feedback: Don't shy away from giving constructive feedback. Offer specific, actionable suggestions to help your colleagues grow and improve their performance. 👉Seek Feedback in Return: This is a two-way street. Ask for feedback from your peers and superiors. Be open to criticism and use it as an opportunity for personal and professional development. 👉Show Empathy: Show empathy towards your colleagues. Understand their perspectives, challenges, and goals. And here’s another truth: the other side of those conversations is a healthy and empowering place to be.