How to ask someone whom you've never met and were referred to through someone else for job connections?

Question

A couple of weeks ago, I volunteered at the special olympics bowling tournament where I met someone whose wife is the director of compliance at the local children's hospital. He told me that if I wanted to get an internship there (which I do), I should contact his wife. He left me his card and his wife's name and her position.

It has been about 3 weeks since I met the guy and the application deadline is nearing. What should I say to her when I call her? I don't want to sound rude or manipulative, but I really want this internship and it is VERY competitive.

Answer 1

tell her the truth. say that you met her husband and where you met him and your conversation with him. is she in charge of this type of thing? it may be that he has already mentioned you to his wife and she is waiting for your call. tell her you would like to do an internship there and ask how you would go about doing it. its not being manipulative or rude. if she is in a position to help you perhaps she will as long as you're not asking her to pull strings.good luck to you.