Tech career coach, interview coach, and trusted confidant to Silicon Valley's top talent via CaffeinatedKyle.com.
getty
As they head into the new year, many people set resolutions to land a new job. In addition to updating your résumé, optimizing your LinkedIn profile and brushing up on your interview skills, you’ll also want to learn the ins and outs of networking in a digital-first era, since relationships play a key role in a successful job hunt. Keep reading for a deep dive into the role of professional networking in a modern-day job search.
Can networking really get you a job?
For starters, is networking still a good way to get a job? While there are discrepancies regarding the percentage of jobs landed because of networking, relationships can help you effectively stand out from other applicants. Notably, most job openings will be technically advertised on a job board in the name of equity, yet hiring managers will often have a candidate in mind well before the official requisition is posted online, which further reinforces the importance of networking. Moreover, while networking can be used when looking for a new job externally, it can also be used at your current position to stay abreast of internal opportunities that arise.
Is job networking hard?
The whole idea of networking likely sounds intimidating and anxiety-inducing, particularly if you’re a fellow introvert who gets sweaty palms and experiences heart palpitations at the thought of small talk. Thankfully, online social platforms like LinkedIn have made it easier than ever to network with industry peers without leaving the comfort of your own home. Importantly, you must be willing to take the initiative, since few people are willing to make the first move but are more than happy to reciprocate.
How do you build your network when looking for a new job?
Please don’t feel like you must start from scratch when building your professional network, either. You can begin by reminding yourself of all the relationships you’ve developed over the years by scrolling through your smartphone’s address book, Facebook friends lists and LinkedIn connections. You can also tap into the social platforms you already use, such as X (previously Twitter), Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, to request informational interviews with peers at your target companies. You can additionally leverage online communities like Reddit, Fishbowl and Blind that are specifically designed for connecting with like-minded industry colleagues. Don’t be afraid to take it offline, either, and network with fellow members of your parent-teacher association, co-op, church, synagogue or mosque.
How do I reach out to my network for a job?
Now, what do you say when reaching out to your network? Keep your message focused and include a clear call to action (CTA) so that it’s easy for them to support your job search effort. Here is a sample networking script for contacting people who work at your target companies:
“Hi [Name], I hope this message finds you fabulous. I’m exploring the next steps in my career, and [Company Name] is one of the companies I’m interested in. Are you open to a brief conversation to share your experience with the company? Thank you for your consideration.”
Now, while not everyone in your network will work at your target company or even in your same industry, this doesn’t mean you can’t network with them. It just requires a slightly different approach. Here is a sample networking message you might consider in these types of cases:
“Hi [Name], I hope this message finds you fabulous. I’m exploring the next steps in my career and targeting large tech companies. Who might you know in engineering at Meta, Google or Apple that you’d be able to introduce me to so that I can learn more about the company’s culture?”
Importantly, you’ll want to tailor your networking message based on your relationship with the person. Additionally, if you’re looking to make a career pivot, you might instead focus your inquiry on learning about their industry experience and tips they have for someone making a similar transition.
Final Thoughts On Networking To Find A Job
While networking isn’t a silver bullet, it can support you in finding your next role faster, particularly in today’s digital-first job market. If you’re feeling hesitant about networking, try to start small and set a daily or weekly goal regarding how many people you will contact. Then, as you have conversations, ask for additional introductions and watch the power of networking unfold as you seek and find your next position. You’ve got this!
Forbes Coaches Council is an invitation-only community for leading business and career coaches. Do I qualify?
