A reader writes:

I have a few companies I am targeting where I have a real interest and passion about their activities.  In mainly informational interviews, I think I have demonstrated my interest, passion, and qualifications for working with the company.  I continue to send relevant information to my connections within the company as a way to be a warm contact should they be hiring.  I have even written my own job description to demonstrate my potential value, even at their suggestion.

I know there is potential at the company as they have growth plans, even these days.

My question is, what is / isn’t appropriate to continue to stay in front of them?  How much is too much?  What could be relevant to continue to be a warm and interested candidate?  Is there a fine line between being interested and passionate about a company and “stalking” them?

My reply:

It sounds like you are doing everything right.  You continue to stay in touch by sending relevant information and you have written your own job description.  To answer your question, yes, there is a fine line between interested and annoying or, as you say, “stalking.”  One option may be to ask the person how often you should remind them that you are still interested.  You might say something like this, “I am very interested in contributing my talents to (state company name) and I would like for you to keep me in mind if a (state job title) position becomes available but I don’t want to be a pest.  How often would be appropriate for me to send you a brief email as a reminder?  Is every two weeks too often?  Is once a month better?”  If you don’t feel comfortable asking, I would suggest about every four weeks, but everyone is different as to how they perceive the passage of time and a show of interest, so that is just a guideline.

Here are some other options to keep your name in front of them:  (1)  Connect to them on LinkedIn and update your profile weekly so you show up in the LinkedIn updates they receive.  (2)  Follow them on Twitter if they tweet.  This may give you other insights as to how to connect with them.  (3)  Find out if there is an industry group that you can join or attend that they might participate in.  If they see you at meetings, they will realize how serious your interest is and you will have an opportunity to interact with them.  (4)  Do they write a blog or follow a blog that you can comment on?

The most valuable thing you can do whenever you are looking for a job is to immerse yourself in the industry that you want to work in.  When you become a participating member of an industry community, you will find all kinds of opportunities to connect with people.  You will stay current on the latest happenings in the industry, which gives you something to talk about with your contacts; and you will build a network that will provide multiple connections back to the people you want to stay in touch with.  Best of luck with your job search!

What methods do you use to stay in touch?