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Intentional Networking and Interviewing Tips for Job Seekers

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Posted On Jul 01, 2025 

No matter where you are in your career—or what industry you’re in—networking and interviewing are skills worth mastering. Whether you’re exploring new opportunities or expanding your professional community, knowing how to communicate your value and make authentic connections is key.

 

Here are five practical strategies to help you shine in interviews, build meaningful relationships, and grow your career with confidence.

 

1. Master the “Tell Me About Yourself” with the FIT Framework

 

Whether you’re networking or interviewing, “Tell Me About Yourself” (TMAY) is one of the most common—and important—questions you’ll face.

 

Use the FIT framework to structure a strong response:

 

  • F – Favorite: Share a favorite part of a recent role.
  • I – Insight: Highlight what you learned or how you grew.
  • T – Transition: Connect it to where you are now—and what’s next.

 

This keeps your answer authentic, concise, and relevant. But strong delivery takes practice. Rehearse aloud with a mentor or recruiter until it feels natural and focused.

 

When crafting your TMAY, aim to:

 

  • Align your story with the job you’re applying to or the industry you’re trying to learn about.
  • Share standout accomplishments and relevant skills—both technical and soft.
  • Show how you solve problems or contribute to teams.
  • End strong by explaining why you’re excited about this opportunity and how you’ll add value.

 

A great TMAY answer sets the tone and helps you lead the conversation with clarity and confidence.

 

2. Use the 6-Point Email to Make Meaningful Outreach

 

Reaching out for networking conversations—especially to someone you don’t know—can feel intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be. The 6-Point Email structure gives job seekers a clear, respectful, and effective way to initiate contact while increasing your chances of getting a response.

 

Here’s how to structure it:

 

  1. Keep it short (under 75 words)
  2. Ask for insight—not a job
  3. Establish common ground (shared school, interest, or connection)
  4. Frame your request as a question
  5. Define your interest broadly and specifically (show you’ve done your research)
  6. Prioritize their experience over yours 

 

Remember that you’re trying to build a relationship, not close a deal, so be sincere and egoless. When done well, this kind of outreach doesn't just open doors—it builds long-term professional rapport.

 

3. Structure Your Networking with the TIARA Framework

 

You’ve landed a meeting – now what? Networking meetings should feel like conversations—not interrogations. That’s where TIARA comes in:

 

  • T – Trends: What’s happening in the industry?
  • I – Insights: What lessons have they learned from experience?
  • A – Advice: What guidance would they offer someone in your position?
  • R – Resources: Are there books, events, or tools that helped them?
  • A – Assignments: Are there projects or ways you can contribute?

 

TIARA helps you lead thoughtful, two-way conversations that go beyond small talk—and leave a positive impression.

 

4. Build a Supportive Networking Ecosystem

 

Don’t wait until you're on the job hunt to build your network. Whether you’re in school, in a new role, or making a pivot, leverage institutional and community support:

 

  • Add networking goals to your personal onboarding process or development plan.
  • Join ERGs (Employee Resource Groups), attend alumni mixers, and say yes to internal meetups.
  • Read internal newsletters for people spotlights and career stories you can follow up on.

 

Small touches like these help build meaningful connections across your workplace or industry.

 

5. How Recruiters Can Help You Succeed

 

If you’re working with a recruiter, remember: they’re not just there to place you. The best recruiters are long-term partners in your career growth. Here’s how they can help:

 

  • Refine your personal elevator pitch
  • Practice outreach emails and informational interview asks
  • Conduct mock interviews and provide honest feedback
  • Share industry-specific insights and hiring trends

 

A recruiter who understands your goals—and your story—can help you present your best self when it matters most. If you’re not sure where to start, check out our Career Goal Setting Guide.

 

Final Thoughts: Confidence Is Built on Preparation

 

Great connections—whether in interviews or networking—don’t happen by accident. They’re built on intentionality, preparation, and practice.

 

At LHH, we support candidates at every stage of their career journey. From refining your story to expanding your network and landing your next role, we’re here to help you move forward with purpose.

 

Let’s build what’s next—together.