Frequently people in my network reach out to let me know about open job positions. They ask for my help in sharing the opportunity with people that I know who might be qualified and interested. They need help in finding talented, motivated people to join their team. And they know that one of the best strategies for talent acquisition is tapping into their employees’ networks.

Perhaps you also receive these kinds of requests.

What do you do when you become aware of an opportunity? How much time and effort do you give it? Are you simply too busy to do anything about it? Does your mind go blank when thinking of people who might fit and who might want to know about this?

With each request, you have a decision to make.

• Can I help out in any meaningful way?
• Can I think of anyone who might be relevant for this position?
• Do I want to get involved, or am I just too busy?
• WIIFM or What’s in it for me?

Now, you may not think of yourself as a recruiter; and you may not possess hiring skills or relevant experience; but you can participate in this very important process – matching the right people to the right opportunities.

Recent example

Last week, a client of mine reached out to let me know that she had landed a great new job that she was excited about. I had worked with her a few years ago on the process of reinventing herself and focusing her career in a new direction. She clearly had the energy, the intelligence and the drive to make it happen, she just needed a little coaching guidance to help her figure it out.

When we reconnected last week she also informed me of a new position at her new company. She asked me if I could recommend anyone for this open position. I didn’t have much information about the position, but I knew her, and I checked out her company on line.

Then I got a LinkedIn invitation from one of her colleagues. I instantly recognized the company name, and I assumed that my client had been speaking about me to her peer. This new LinkedIn connection quickly moved into a short online conversation. Ironically, this new connection is the hiring manager.

So, when I forwarded the name and contact details of a person in my network whom I know is looking for a new opportunity. The action started to happen almost immediately. Within two days, they had exchanged emails, had a telephone conversation and arranged an in person interview for the next week.

I couldn’t believe how quickly things were transpiring. It was all so exciting. The act of networking and helping was once again proving valuable to me and to others. I was grateful that I took the time and effort to act on this particular request. I don’t know what will happen and I have zero control over the outcome, but I do know that I have enough influence to create opportunities for other people. And that influence makes me feel powerful, motivated, excited and hopeful for the future!

Put this idea into action

The next time someone in your network reaches out to you with the good news that an organization is hiring and asks you to recommend someone for the position, STOP. Take the time to read the message (don’t just delete it). Find out what you need to know in order to connect the dots between this particular opportunity and the people in your network.

Then, make the effort to do something about it. Be part of this recruiting process. Be an ambassador for your organization when you network. Help attract the talent that your company needs to thrive. Even if you aren’t looking for a job for yourself, take part in the job creating process. Leverage your network to create opportunities for others.

You can easily leverage the power of your network to stimulate the economy. Take pride that you are helping people and organizations to grow simply through your ability to connect people with opportunity. It feels great to help people succeed in their careers and organizations!