The Power of Networking
Did you know that nearly 70% of jobs are never advertised publicly? They exist in what experts call the “hidden job market.” Employers often fill these roles through personal recommendations and professional connections rather than job boards or company websites. That means your network is one of the most valuable tools in your career journey. The more you invest in meaningful connections, the more access you’ll have to unadvertised opportunities.
So, how can you effectively leverage your network? Let’s dive in.
Why Networking Matters
Many job openings are shared through word-of-mouth, meaning you’re far more likely to discover them through personal conversations than scrolling through job postings. In fact, 80% of hidden jobs are filled through direct professional connections. Building relationships with industry insiders provides:
- Access to job openings before they’re publicly posted
- Insights from experienced professionals in your field
- Long-term relationships that can help you grow
- Exclusive knowledge of trends that keep you competitive
The more strategic you are with networking, the greater your chances of unlocking career opportunities that others never see.
Types of Networking Contacts
Not all professional connections serve the same purpose. Here’s a breakdown of key networking contacts and how they can support your career growth.
Guidepost Contacts
These individuals provide general direction and career insights. You don’t need to maintain a long-term relationship with them, but their advice can help you navigate your industry.
Intel Contacts
Intel contacts offer valuable inside information about specific industries, companies, or roles. These are the connections you’ll want to cultivate over time, as they provide long-term value to your career.
Decision-Maker Contacts
These are the individuals who play a direct role in hiring decisions, but they’re not always HR personnel. Building strong relationships with decision-makers can help position you for opportunities when they arise.
Prioritizing Intel and Decision-Maker contacts will give you the most strategic advantage in networking.
Networking Strategies for College Students
If you’re a student looking to build professional connections, start early and be proactive. Here are some strategies to get started:
- Attend Industry Events – Conferences, career fairs, and professional meetups help you connect with people in your field.
- Leverage Alumni Networks – Platforms like LinkedIn, Voyager, and Career Shift are great for finding alumni willing to mentor and share opportunities.
- Join Professional Platforms – LinkedIn and industry-specific forums allow you to build credibility and make valuable connections.
- Find Mentorship Programs – Look into professional associations or student organizations that offer mentorship opportunities.
Informational Interviews: The Ultimate Networking Tool
What They Are
Informational interviews are conversations with professionals designed to learn about their career path and industry—without the pressure of a job application. They are 8x more likely to help students land internships and future positions than traditional applications.
Why They Work
Since most professionals love to help students, these interviews provide an organic way to build relationships, gain insider knowledge, and position yourself for future opportunities.
How to Make Them Effective
- Focus on mutual interests—topics they enjoy discussing.
- Be authentic and let your enthusiasm shine through.
- Remember: most professionals genuinely want to help students succeed.
Getting Responses to Your Outreach
Cold outreach can be intimidating, but these strategies will help you get responses.
Craft Compelling Messages
- Be specific and brief—get to the point.
- Show you’ve done research on the individual.
- Provide a clear call to action (e.g., requesting a 15-20 min Zoom chat).
- Request meetings far enough in the future to show professionalism.
Target the Right People
- Reach out to individuals with shared interests or connections in your field.
- Make sure to highlight commonalities to create a stronger connection.
Conduct an Informational Interview
For more information on how to conduct an Informational Interview, click here!
Follow Up Thoughtfully
- Wait one week, then send a friendly reminder.
- If no response, send a third email using another email address if necessary.
- Still no response? Try calling or reaching out on another platform.
Contact Rotation Strategy
Use this approach to stay organized and increase your chances of getting responses:
- Research: Find contacts and study their background.
- Reach Out: Send personalized messages with clear requests.
- Wait Period: Move to the backburner while focusing on other leads.
- Follow Up: Reconnect after a reasonable time frame.
Maintaining Your Network Over Time
Your network is only as strong as the relationships you maintain. Stay connected by:
Leaving with Homework
End every conversation with specific follow-up actions.
Expressing Gratitude
Send a personalized thank-you within 24 hours of any meeting.
Providing Value
Share articles, events, or introductions that could benefit your connections too. Networking should be mutually beneficial!
Final Thoughts
Expanding your network is one of the smartest moves you can make in your career. Whether you’re a college student, recent graduate, or experienced professional, building meaningful connections will open doors to hidden opportunities and long-term success.
Start today—reach out, build relationships, and watch your career grow through the power of networking.