Checking email accounts and LinkedIn messages is critical during a job search. Missing a message that could lead to an interview or offer can not only be detrimental to you, but if someone else has brokered a connection, your lack of response reflects poorly on your colleague. So, how can you make sure you don’t sabotage your own success? Here are three practices for communication during a job search:
Create a routine. It’s essential that you check your email at least once a day. Be sure to check all accounts you own, particularly if you are using a personal or secondary email address during a job search. Figure out what time of day works for you and stick to it. My preference is to do an intentional email check-in first thing in the morning and before leaving the office.
Utilize automation. In addition to regularly checking messages, your social media settings can help. In LinkedIn, select “settings and privacy” then “communications” to opt-in on email notifications for messages and invitations. This ensures that you receive alerts of important messages as they come in.
Respond promptly. Once you’ve received a message, it’s vital that you reply in a timely manner. Don’t rush out a message that lacks quality; getting back to a correspondent a day later with a professional message is preferable to an immediate reply riddled with errors.
