I can hear it now, "Duh, Alex, I know people," maybe there’s a sassy teenage eye roll. If that’s the case, step away from your screen. No, I’m not kidding. If you’re reading the first line of this post and are already in a bad mood, you won’t listen to anything that I have to say. Take a break, grab a snack, go for a walk, but unplug.
Why Networking Matters (Even If You’re Rolling Your Eyes)
Anyhow, people. If you know the right people, you’re on track to a job. Did you know that at least 70% of jobs aren’t even posted, and as many as 80% of jobs are filled through networking? That’s huge! Most people think job hunting is all about sending out tons of resumes into the abyss of online job boards, but the secret sauce lies in who you know, not just what you know.
Now, I know I’ve mentioned talking to people you already know to get into a certain position or company before, but seriously, I wasn’t kidding. It’s not just a “nice-to-do”—it’s essential. It’s like this hidden, magic portal to jobs that aren’t even on the market. By tapping into your network, you get the inside scoop, job leads, and referrals that can fast-track you to an offer.
Building Genuine Connections (Without Feeling Fake)
Once again, don’t befriend people just to get a job. Nobody wants to feel used, and you don’t want to be that person who only calls someone when you need something. Networking isn’t about transactional relationships—it’s about building real connections that can grow over time. Sure, job opportunities may come from it, but that’s just one part of the whole picture.
Here’s a simple tip: make a goal of adding 5 people to your LinkedIn community every week. Maybe you’re an extrovert and you can do 5 in a day, but choose a number that’s realistic for you. If you’re more introverted or just starting out, 5 a week is still solid progress. The key is to set a goal that works for your pace. If you set the bar too high and don’t reach it, that disappointment can make you feel worse, and that’s not what we’re about here. Small, consistent steps get you much further than giant leaps that fizzle out.
Leveraging Your Existing Network
If you’re currently employed but looking to switch, remember those connections you made when you first got your current job. They were helpful once and, guess what, they could be helpful again! It’s never too late to reconnect with people. Sometimes the most valuable contacts are the ones you’ve known the longest. Even if it’s been a while since you last spoke, reaching out with a simple message like, “Hey, it’s been a while! I’d love to catch up and hear how things are going with you” can reopen doors. People are more willing to help than you might think—sometimes it just takes that first step to start the conversation.
Don’t Underestimate The Power of Weak Ties
While staying close to your established network is important, there’s also something called “weak ties” that can be incredibly powerful in a job search. These are the people you don’t know well—maybe an old colleague’s friend, someone you met briefly at a conference, or a distant LinkedIn connection. According to research, these weak ties are often the ones that introduce us to new opportunities. Why? Because they move in different circles and have access to information or networks you wouldn’t otherwise know about. So, while it’s tempting to stick with your closest contacts, don’t be afraid to branch out a little.
Track Your Progress (Without Stressing About It)
You’ve heard this before, but I’ll say it again: don’t let the little things get you down. Job hunting can feel like a rollercoaster, and while the rejections can sting, they’re not a reflection of your worth. Tracking your networking efforts, much like tracking your job applications, helps you see the bigger picture. Add a few notes on your conversations, who you’ve connected with, and any potential leads. That way, you’re organized without being overwhelmed.
And, hey, don’t forget to allow yourself to feel whatever comes up when big things hit. Didn’t land the interview? It’s okay to be disappointed, but don’t let it knock you out of the game. These moments are tough, but they also build resilience—and resilience is a valuable asset in any job search.
Set Realistic Goals and Celebrate Small Wins
Look, the point here isn’t just to get a job but to keep your mental well-being intact while you’re at it. One way to do that is to set realistic goals—whether it’s networking or applying for jobs—and to celebrate your small wins. Did you reconnect with an old colleague today? Fantastic! Did you add those 5 LinkedIn connections this week? Go you! These little victories matter and keep you motivated during the tougher parts of the search.
Take it step by step, and remember that you’re not just searching for a job—you’re building relationships and growing your career. So, keep that positive momentum going, even when it feels like progress is slow.
Don’t take our word for it; check out our friend Patricia Romboletti's process of Bulletproof Your Career. Pat walks you through how to network and make and maintain connections to get your next job.
Don’t let the little things get you down, but also allow yourself to feel whatever about the big things.
See you on the beach,
Aloha Alex