Alexander Smith

I’ve landed job offers at Facebook, Google, Dropbox, NBC and Adobe.

I’ve interviewed at places like Amazon, Pinterest, Microsoft and many top tech companies.

If you want to grow your network and land more jobs, here is my best advice:

Network. And use empathy when you talk to people.

Here's what I mean...

Most people send messages that sound like this:

Hey Daren! I saw you worked at Netflix and I want to work at Netflix. Can you review my resume and do a phone call with me?

But you can send a better message:

Here’s an example:

Hey Daren! I have spent time researching roles at Netflix and applied for a policy manager role. After looking through your profile, I noticed you specifically focus on original programming and content ratings. I have a background in that subject and would love to chat. I know you’re busy, but would sometime in January work for a phone call?

Those messages stand out.

When you’re networking...spend time researching you are networking with.

Read their LinkedIn profile. Read their posts. Look at their job history.

When you use empathy, networking becomes easier.

Try this strategy as you look for a job. I promise it's worth it.

(Get more job search advice here: amzn.to/3di8QFo)

For those who didn't have a major accomplishment or start a flashy new job in 2020:

You didn't waste a year.

2020 was emotionally draining.

There was an unprecedented pandemic and economic collapse.

It's okay if you didn't hit milestones and took time for yourself.

Celebrate the small victories and wins.

You made it to 2021 and that's an accomplishment.

I'm rooting for you this year. You've got this :)

I have worked at Facebook and Google.

And, I’m going to tell you something that will surprise you.

I studied history. And, hundreds of my coworkers…

Also studied liberal arts.

If you want to get a job in tech, you don’t have to study computer science or business.

There are many roles for liberal arts majors. These roles include:

-Project Management
-HR
-Research
-Operations
-Customer success

You can be successful in tech with a liberal arts degree.

Who else agrees?

(Follow me and #advicebyalex for more career advice posts)