This is the preferred approach for those who cringe at the idea of directly approaching a company to inquire about employment. It allows you to comfortably ask about employment without directly asking. Instead of asking a Hiring Manager about employment opportunities within her company specifically, you ask a "who do you know" question, which could lead to one of three results: she doesn't know of anyone (or at least is not willing to give you the information if she does); she is aware of someone else that may have an interest (either within or outside the company); or she may have a direct interest herself.

You will find this to be a much more subtle approach, one that almost anyone can handle comfortably since none of the pressure exists that accompanies presenting yourself directly. If they happen to remark that they might be interested, your "Oh really?" response again takes the pressure off, since they are now coming after you instead of you going after them. Here is a sample script for the indirect approach:

1. Introduction - "Hello, Mr./Ms. _____, my name is _____. I'm currently finishing up my final year at _____ and will be getting my _____ degree in _____ in May (or August or December or whenever)."

2. Purpose - "I was referred to you as someone who is well connected in the _____ field."

3. Summary - "My background includes . . . "

   Note: state your top two or three potential benefits. These can include items from the Summary section of your resume and any personal attributes you feel would benefit the employer. If you have done your research properly, you should customize your benefits specifically to this target company and target contact.

4. Action - "Are you aware of any company that might have a need for someone with my background and abilities?"

It's low pressure, but it does come at a cost. If you are conducting a nationwide search, be aware that most referrals you will receive back will be local or regional at best. And with some managers, if you do not directly ask about their specific needs, you may never get the desired response.

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