Thread by @ashleyruba

Have you sent networking messages, only to be met with silence? I receive messages every day from folx about UX - I try to respond to everyone, but it’s hard.

Here are some tips to make sure that your messages are read & receive a response: 1/

#AltAcChats @AltAcChats

1) Understand that people are busy.

I get 5+ messages daily - I’d love to have 30min zoom chats with everyone, but I can’t (I have a full time job & I don’t work nights or weekends).

If you can ask your questions in a message, that’s a much lower barrier for a response! 2/

2) Ask specific questions.

“Can you tell me about your UX job?” is really vague. What do you want to know?

What information will tell you whether this job is a good fit for you? Do you want to know about the interview, or how this job differs from academia? Be specific! 3/

3) Don’t ask for/expect a job.

At my company, I have no role in the hiring process. I can refer you, but that’s it!

This is the case elsewhere too. You should network to genuinely find out more about a job and its fit - individual people have little power to make offers. 4/

4) Start with people you know.

This includes program alumni or friends of friends. You will be more likely to receive a response than from a stranger.

Not saying that strangers never respond (I do!), but remember: people are busy & you’re asking them to help you for free. 5/

With that said, I’m happy to connect here or on LinkedIn about UX and #altac!

Send your *specific* questions my way ☺️