The Power of Networking for Job Hunting: Strategies and Insights for Beginners

Whether you’re a school leaver trying to break into an in-demand job , a professional planning a career change or rejoining the workforce after a break, achieving your career goals without insider contacts can seem like knocking at a locked door.

What you need is someone to hype you up; prepare the ground and warm recruiters before you enter the room. That’s the power of networking.

Networking creates connections, and connections lead to job opportunities. Of course, you will still need a professional CV and powerful cover letter to land your dream job, but getting an introduction or recommendation to interview makes all the difference.

In this article, we cover:

• Why networking matters in today’s job market.

• How networking can influence your job search.

• Strategies and tips for effective job networking.

• Overcoming common networking challenges.

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Why networking matters in today’s job market

In the modern job market, you’re essentially selling a product: you.

Effective selling requires daily conversations that showcase your value. Building trust in your skills and services over time is the essence of networking.

Networking is no longer an optional skill; it’s a vital tool for jobseekers to uncover new opportunities. Studies indicate up to 85% of UK job opportunities are found through networking, with many positions never being advertised publicly. By developing a strong network, you’re not just looking for jobs—you’re creating pathways for job opportunities to find you.

How networking influences your job search

When you incorporate networking into your job search strategy, you’re effectively doubling your chances of success. Here’s how:

• Outbound opportunities: Traditional methods like sending CVs via email and contacting recruitment agencies remain important. Networking strengthens these efforts by giving your application a personal touch. A referral from a professional contact increases the likelihood of your CV being read.

• Inbound opportunities: As you build your network, professionals may reach out to you with relevant and even higher-paying jobs. These inbound leads mean less time searching and more time assessing fitting roles.

5 networking strategies for jobseekers

Building your network takes effort, but with the right strategies, you can start meeting new people, forging connections and creating career opportunities. Here are practical tips to help you start networking for jobs:

1. Attend networking events

Seek out local or industry-specific networking events or even job fairs. If you plan to work in a creative role like a musician, artist or actor, attending events and performances is a must. Meeting people in person leaves a stronger impression and can lead to immediate connections. Prepare by researching attendees or speakers in advance so you can strike up meaningful conversations.

2. Use online networking tools

Maintaining and improving your LinkedIn profile is invaluable for career information and professional networking. Especially in consulting or digital marketing, follow industry leaders, engage with their content and don’t hesitate to send personalised connection requests. Find your own voice and update your profile to highlight your strengths and achievements.

3. Build genuine relationships

Networking is not about transactional exchanges. Focus on building relationships by showing interest in the person you’re talking to—whether it’s their projects, hobbies or professional achievements. This can be especially true for industries such as real estate or sales.

4. Leverage recruitment agencies

Agencies often have access to emerging jobs such as machine learning and data science. Staying on their radar ensures you’re considered for exclusive opportunities. Be proactive in communicating your career goals and keeping your profile updated with them.

5. Volunteer or participate in community initiatives

Volunteering or joining local or professional community initiatives provides a natural platform to meet new people and showcase your dedication. These environments allow for meaningful connections without the formal pressure of traditional networking events.

10 networking tips for beginners

1. Don’t come on too strong

It’s OK to let people know you’re networking but avoid diving straight into job opportunities.

• Build rapport by discussing shared hobbies and interests.

• Asking about their experiences builds trust over time.

2. Be prepared

Carry business cards and have your elevator pitch ready.

• Think of this pitch as your personal profile explaining who you are, what you do and what you’re looking for.

• Remember, tweak this depending on the conversation and person.

3. Be comfortable

Practice with friends or colleagues before attending larger networking events.

• This helps you refine your approach and build confidence in a low-stakes environment.

• Networking should feel like a series of natural conversations.

4. Be an active listener

Focus on understanding the person you’re talking to rather than planning your next question.

• Active listening helps you ask better follow-up questions

• You want to leave a lasting impression.

5. Follow up

Keep the connection alive with a simple follow up.

• Send a thank-you note or LinkedIn message after meeting someone.

• Mention something specific from your conversation to make your message more memorable.

6. Set goals

Setting achievable goals helps reduce anxiety and increase productivity.

• Aim to meet three new people at each networking event to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Focus on quality over quantity to form meaningful connections.

7. Use social media wisely

Share industry-related posts and insights to your online social network.

• Try to position yourself as an informed professional.

• Engage with others’ content by commenting or sharing posts to stay visible in your network.

8. Seek mentorship

Identify experienced professionals who can provide guidance and support.

• Building relationships with mentors can offer valuable insights

• This can also open doors to new opportunities.

Read more about how to find a mentor.

9. Off-diary networking

Be open to connecting outside formal settings.

• Whether you’re in a coffee shop, on public transport or attending a social gathering, approach conversations with curiosity.

• You never know, a spontaneous conversation might lead to a valuable opportunity.

10. Stay positive

Rejections or ignored messages are part of the process.

• Treat each interaction as a learning experience.

• Keep refining your approach Persistence pays.

Networking strategies for students

While there is plenty of career advice for students entering the workforce, the best you can get is to start networking early. Networking while studying offers unique opportunities to build your career foundation early. In fact, a recent study shows half of Gen Z workers secured a job opportunity through networking. 

If you want to enter a highly influential industry like finance or sustainability, getting into the habit before you graduate is a good idea. Here’s how you can make the most of networking:

1. Leverage part-time jobs: Use part-time work and side hustle jobs to build professional relationships. Supervisors, colleagues and clients can become valuable contacts in your network.

2. Utilise university career services: Many universities offer career fairs, workshops and alumni networking events. These are excellent opportunities to connect with professionals in your field.

3. Engage in student organisations: Joining student organisations or clubs related to your field can help you meet like-minded peers and industry contacts.

4. Take advantage of internships: Internships provide hands-on experience and direct access to industry professionals. Treat every interaction as a networking opportunity.

5. Keep an international outlook: Job opportunities for internationals could crop up at cultural exchange events and university-led initiatives. Broaden your network, showcase your unique background and strengthen your offer with additional languages.

Overcoming common networking challenges

Networking isn’t always easy, especially for introverts or those new to the process. Here’s how to tackle some common hurdles:

• My social anxiety stops me: Start with smaller gatherings or one-on-one meetings to build confidence. Practice introducing yourself until it feels natural. Gradually expose yourself to larger events as your comfort level increases.

• I have limited time: Prioritise quality over quantity. Building a strong network doesn’t happen overnight, so dedicate short, consistent periods to networking each week. Even ten minutes a day on LinkedIn can make a difference.

• I don’t know what to say: Prepare a few open-ended questions like “What do you enjoy most about your work?” or “What advice would you give to someone entering your field?” These questions encourage meaningful conversations.

• Networking is not effective: Networking may seem like a long-term effort with no immediate payoff, but the relationships you build often open doors when you least expect it. Approach it as an investment in your future career.

• I don’t want to be rejected: Reframe rejection as a natural part of networking. Not every connection will lead to an opportunity, but each interaction provides a chance to refine your approach and expand your comfort zone.

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Long-term benefits of networking beyond job hunting

Networking isn’t just for finding your next job. Over time, it helps you:

• Build a strong professional reputation.

• Stay informed about industry trends.

• Access mentorship opportunities.

• Create lasting relationships that may lead to future collaborations or career changes.

• Develop in-demand soft skills like communication, leadership and problem-solving through interactions with diverse professionals.

Key takeaways

• Networking is a powerful tool for both job seekers and career growth.

• Building genuine connections takes time and effort but yields long-term benefits.

• Use a mix of in-person and online networking strategies to expand your reach.

• Overcoming challenges like social anxiety or lack of experience is possible with preparation and persistence.

Next steps for your job search

Now that you’re ready to work the room, it’s time to take action. Follow these next steps to be in the best position to take advantage of planned and off-diary networking opportunities:

• Build your CV: Ensure you have a modern CV that reflects your current skills and experience accurately and professionally. It needs to be ready to send at a moment’s notice.

• Perfect your cover letters: Likewise, having a structured cover letter you can adapt for each job application, highlighting how your skills align with the role, allows you to be responsive to job opportunities.

• Start networking: Plan major networking events and conventions into your yearly plan and engage with professionals on LinkedIn on a weekly basis.

• Prepare for networking events and interviews: Practice introducing yourself, refining your elevator pitch and answering common interview questions. Improve active listening and small talk too.

FAQs

How to network internally for a job?

Build connections with colleagues by offering help on projects and attending company events. Express interest in internal opportunities during one-on-one meetings with managers. Focus on developing a reputation as a dependable and capable team member before seeking new opportunities within the same organisation.

Which platform is best for job search?

LinkedIn is widely considered the best platform for professional networking and job searches, but don’t overlook niche job boards such as Upwork and recruitment agency sites.

How to network for a job on LinkedIn?

Engage with posts, share relevant content and send personalised connection requests. Join LinkedIn groups related to your industry for additional opportunities. Regularly share original industry insights in your own voice. Do not copy and paste connection requests or content.

Should I add references to my CV?

While having someone confirm your skills and abilities is a good thing, it’s not necessary to include references directly on your CV. Instead, mention that they are available upon request. Have written references ready and signed by the reference giver or warn your reference they may be contacted by your potential employer.

Should I start networking before I start looking for a job?

Yes. Networking and building trust takes time. Cultivating relationships early gives you a solid foundation when you’re ready to start your job search. Letting your network know you are open to work prompts them to think of you when opportunities arise.

What’s the best way to follow up after networking?

Send a personalised thank-you email or message, referencing specific details from your conversation to show genuine interest and maintain the connection. If appropriate, suggest the next steps or availability for further meet-ups.

Can introverts be successful at networking?

Absolutely. Introverts often excel at forming deep, meaningful connections. Focus on one-on-one interactions or smaller groups to play to your strengths. Stepping out of your comfort zone in this way can be challenging, but the rewards for doing so are great.