Job seeking etiquette question

[winneythepooh7]

So I was looking at the online classifieds today and came across a really cool-sounding job for a MSW that I may or may not be qualified for. In any event, the JD/MSW who submitted the ad, I met a couple of times a lonnnnnnnnnnnnng time ago, as she is a member of my GLO. She may or may not remember me. In any event, I would like to submit my resume, but it doesn't say anywhere on my resume that I am a member of this GLO (I don't put that anymore because I really don't need it in my eyes). I also don't know if it is appropriate to shoot her out an email saying something to the extent of "I met you a couple years ago, not sure if you remember me, but I am interested in learning more about this position as advertised on___________". What do you all think?

[tdko]

You should absolutely send an email to your contact! Make it friendly and casual, but it can't hurt to put your name out there and it could help you get the job. Maybe ask a few questions about the position to make the email "legit," but I think you should.

[Desiderata]

YES contact her! It's always a plus to have an in, ANY kind of in... and by all means sneak it into the res, might jog her memory too

[winneythepooh7]

I am thinking of just sending out a more informal email stating something like this:

"Dear Ms.________:

I don't know if you remember me, but we met a few times in the past for get-togethers for the Metro______AA. In any event, I was looking at___________and saw the following opening that you submitted. I would be interested in meeting with you to discuss the position further. I have attached a copy of my resume for your review."

See, the awkwardness for me as well, is that I don't know if it is a position I am completely qualified for, and I don't want her to feel obligated to interview me and all that........although it does seem like an awesome opportunity.

[Desiderata]

you've gotta go for it. worst case is she says you're not qualified, at the least you've got an in and it might be just the leg up you need to get in the door. People are always more likely to hire someone they know, then off the street. Sure it won't be the most comfortable email or lunch, but well worth the effort if it pans out

[winneythepooh7]

Well, I decided to go for the informal email route. That way, I don't think there will be as much pressure. I looked at the job ad about 20 more times and there is a lot in the requirments that I probably would not be qualified for (ie. grant writing, fundraising, conference planning). It also seems to be working more with children. Most of my experience is with adults. In any event, it asked for a MSW, which I have. In the email I just wrote that I didn't know if she remembered me, but I had seen her ad and remembered her. I said I didn't know if I met the qualifications she was looking for for this particular position, however, if she has any other leads either there or elsewhere in the community, to please let me know. In any event, it is still networking and you just never know right?

[bumblegirl]

I think that's great Winnie. Let us know how it turns out!