So, you’re hunting for a job, or maybe you’re just dipping your toes into the idea, and the big question pops into mind: “Networking—how the heck does that even work?” To be honest, we’ve all been there—feeling awkward, wondering if you’re bothering people, or worse, doing it all wrong. But stick with me. Let’s chat like two folks who’ve tripped through this before and came out sorta okay—with a few pointers that might actually help.
The Hidden Job Market—Crazy Real
Here’s the weird thing: a ton of jobs—like, maybe up to half or more—don’t ever hit your typical job board or site. They’re tucked away in what’s often called the “hidden job market.” Most new gigs come through referrals or people knowing other people. Kinda wild, huh? But makes sense when you think about how trusting hiring managers are of folks someone else vouches for.
So, networking isn’t just fluff. It’s how stuff really happens.
Start with Who You Already Know
Family, Friends, Professors (Yeah, Really)
Here’s something that always surprises people: hit up your inner circle first. I’m talking family, friends, mom’s friend who knows someone, or that one professor you thanked every semester. These inside connections can give you proper, tailored advice and maybe even introductions—because they, like, actually care.
Be real. Be a little vulnerable. It doesn’t feel gross—it feels human. And trust me, pride’s the easiest thing to leave behind anyway.
Weak Ties Are Actually Gold
Brace yourself—some of your best leads might come from acquaintances, not your super-close buds. Sociologists say those “not-too-close, not-completely-random” connections—aka moderately weak ties—often point to new, fresh opportunities you didn’t even know existed. So don’t brush ‘em off.
Meet People in Real Life (Yes, Face-to-Face Still Works)
Events, Meetups, User Groups
Here’s something proactive—show up. Conferences, meetups, workshops, specialized events—not just job fairs, but places where people in your field hang out. Chat with someone, grab a business card, ask a dumb question, laugh, share a small story.
It’s so simple: being there in person builds a memory. And, well, people remember you.
Skip the Generic Career Fairs (Some of Them Anyway)
I’m not saying career fairs are bad—but sometimes they’re just… meh. It can feel like yelling into a void. A much more interesting play? Go to niche tech panels, hackathons, or small gatherings where hiring decision-makers actually are—you chat, someone says “Hey, we’re looking for…” and boom. That intimacy can totally beat a crowded booth.
Online Networking—Yes, It Still Works
Use Platforms Like LinkedIn with Intention
Let’s talk about the big one: LinkedIn. It’s not just your online resume—it’s your digital introduction, your brand playground. Keep your profile updated, post a bit about what you’re interested in or learning, and don’t be shy to connect with people. You can ask your first-degree contacts for intros to second-degree folks. It’s like social networking meets job hunting .
Cold Outreach, But Make It Friendly
So, cold-messaging someone you admire? Super nerve-wracking. But done right, it works. Be clear about what you want—maybe it’s advice on how to get hired, maybe it’s a coffee chat—not a job ask. Let them know what you’re doing and why you admire them. Keep it short. Pay attention to what works—and then rinse and repeat.
Build Relationships Over Time—Don’t Treat It Like a Transaction
Three Stages of Networking (Per Reddit Wisdom)
This one’s golden: someone laid out networking in three phases:
- Meet and greet – You show up to something, say hi, exchange cards or LinkedIn invites.
- Grow the relationship – Have lunch, send a note, exchange ideas.
- Maintain – Keep checking in, maybe drinks or a quick chat, real friends and mentors piece.
Do this right and you’re not just another contact—you’re someone they genuinely like. And that matters.
Don’t Ask for a Job—Ask for Advice
Here’s a subtle shift: tune your ask toward “advice” or “experience,” not “job.” Show curiosity in the person, what they do. Listen. That builds respect, trust, and someone’s more likely to think of you when something does open up.
Help Others First—The “Go-Giver” Mindset
Let me be honest, a little giving goes a long way. Want to stand out? Offer to interview someone for your blog or newsletter. Or share a helpful article, or offer to connect them with someone they should know. Giving—not asking—is powerful.
Follow Up, but Keep It Light
Okay, you met someone or got some advice. Now, follow up—thank ’em, mention something you talked about, share a quick relevant article maybe. Stay on their radar, so when something good pops up in your field—you might just come to mind.
Track What You’re Doing
This is a weird but helpful tip: keep a simple spreadsheet or notes. Who you’ve reached out to, when, notes about what you talked about, follow-up reminders. Helps you remember stuff and feel less scatter-brained. Keeps your follow-ups real and human.
Networking Doesn’t Stop After Landing the Job
Ah, here’s the kicker: don’t just network when you’re looking. Keep at it always—even when you’re settled. Grab coffee with someone senior at your company, keep in touch with colleagues, people you respect. These people might be the ones who boost you further down the line—or call you when they need you.
Quick Recap (“TL;DR” but with heart)
- The best jobs often aren’t posted—rely on people.
- Start with folks you already know.
- Stretch beyond close friends—weak ties are a goldmine.
- Show up in person (events, meetups) and online (post, connect, chat).
- Cold outreach—yes, but be polite and clear.
- Grow relationships over time—not just once-off.
- Ask for advice, not jobs.
- Give value first. A lot.
- Follow up thoughtfully.
- Track your efforts (so you don’t ghost people unintentionally).
- And network always, not just when you’re job hunting.
