Why Networking Works (Even If You Hate It)

If you’ve ever spent hours perfecting your resume, collecting certifications, or building your portfolio, it’s natural to think that skills should be the only thing that matter in getting hired.

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But here’s the reality:

Skills open the door. Relationships get you invited in.

Think About It Like a Group Project

Imagine you’ve got a group project and need two people to join.

You know five friends in the class who are smart. Maybe not the smartest in the room, but you know them, trust them, and have seen them deliver.

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Do you:

Spend hours talking to every single person in the class before deciding?

Or pick from the people you already know and trust?

Most people would choose the second option, and so do hiring managers.

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Why Trust Matters in Hiring

Hiring is a high-stakes decision. Bringing someone onto a team costs time, money, and energy.

When a current employee vouches for you, the risk of a “bad hire” drops. That’s why referrals and introductions can move you to the front of the line.

This isn’t about “schmoozing.” Networking is simply about making sure the right people know you exist before the job posting closes.

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How to Network the Right Way

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Step 1: Identify Your Target Companies

Pick 5–10 companies you genuinely want to work for.

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Step 2: Find the Right People

Search for hiring managers, team members, or recruiters on LinkedIn. Use filters like alumni networks, shared backgrounds, or industry-specific groups.

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Step 3: Send a Short, Specific Connection Request

Example:

Hi [Name], I’m a [role/year] at [school/company] and saw you’re hiring for [role] at [company]. My background is in [relevant skill]. Would love to connect and learn more about your work.

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Step 4: Have a Coffee Chat

Once they connect, ask for a 15–20 minute conversation.

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Your goal:

Learn about their role and team

Share a brief summary of your background

If the rapport is strong, ask for advice on how to stand out for a specific role

If they give helpful advice, follow up with: “Would you be open to referring me for it?”

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Step 5: Keep the Relationship Warm

Track your connections in a spreadsheet. Check in every few months — even when you don’t need anything — by sharing updates, wins, or industry news they’d find interesting.

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Why This Works

Networking increases your odds of landing an interview because it helps you bypass the “stranger” stage.

The people who get the most help aren’t the ones with the most impressive resumes — they’re the ones who’ve built trust before they need it. (edited)

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