Tips for Networking as a Job Seeker

Leveraging Connections: How Relationships Lead to Opportunities  You’ve applied to your dream job, but haven’t heard back. With hundreds of applicants per opening, how do you get your resume noticed? As a recruiter, I’ve seen mediocre resumes get selected through employee referrals. The secret is strategic networking to build relationships that lead to endorsements. Here are tips for getting connected: - Attend industry events and seek out warm introductions to company insiders. A familiar contact expedites visibility. - Join professional associations and engage with members at target employers via forums and social media. Become known. - Volunteer for nonprofits connected to the company. Giving back grabs goodwill and gets you on radars. - Follow and provide value to recruiters and hiring managers through insightful comments. Become a known asset. - Ask trusted contacts to submit your resume directly if possible. Referrals often lead straight to interviews. With an expanded professional network and nurtured relationships, you can open previously closed doors. Don't just apply anonymously and cross your fingers. Strategically build community and social capital to access hidden opportunities. I'm happy to share more relationship-building tips to land your dream role! #SocialCapital #RelationshipBuilding #DreamJob #JobSearchTips #Referrals #EmployeeReferrals #GettingHired #LandYourDreamJob #TapYourNetwork #LeverageConnections #WarmIntroductions #HiddenJobMarket #JobHunting #HiringInsights #RecruiterTips #CareerGoals #CareerDevelopment Copy Retry

More than 70% of jobs are never posted. They’re filled through conversations, referrals, and relationships. When I first started job hunting in the U.S., I did what most people do: submit resumes through job boards and wait. But over time, I realized that the most powerful tool is not the application—but the connection. So I wrote this article to help others who are navigating similar paths: 🔗 “Job Searching Is More Than Just Submitting Resumes: How Proactive Networking Unlocks Hidden Career Opportunities” Here’s what you’ll learn: ✅ How to map and activate your existing network ✅ A 30-second elevator pitch structure that actually works ✅ How to lead better coffee chats using the A.I.R. model ✅ Networking tips for introverts (yes, it’s possible) ✅ Follow-up messages that lead to real opportunities ✅ My weekly networking action plan template This guide is especially helpful if you are: 🔹 Job hunting in biotech, life sciences, or tech 🔹 Switching careers or transitioning from academia 🔹 Building your network as an introvert or international professional 📬 I’ve also included free templates for your networking profile and thank-you notes. Feel free to leave a comment or DM me—happy to share! 👇 Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/e8_qnq9V #Networking #JobSearch #CareerDevelopment #BiotechCareers #InformationalInterview #CareerTips #BiomedicalScientist #CoffeeChat #LinkedInTips

Getting my role at #microsoft right after my MBA from Seattle University was a journey fueled by networking, and along the way, I've noticed common errors that many encounter. Most of us make the same networking mistakes, hindering our chances of securing employment. I'm here to shed light on these stumbling blocks and provide actionable solutions. Sharing 4 key issues holding you back from getting hired and, most importantly, how to overcome them. 1. Lack of Networking Strategy: Many individuals fail to have a clear networking strategy in place, resulting in aimless connections and missed opportunities. To overcome this, start by defining your goals, identifying target industries or companies, and actively engaging with professionals in your field through platforms like LinkedIn. Networking with purpose increases your chances of meaningful connections and job opportunities. 2. Ineffective Resume: Your resumes are often the first impression you make on potential employers. If they are generic or poorly crafted, they may fail to capture attention. To address this, tailor your resume highlighting relevant skills and experiences that align with the job requirements. Consider seeking feedback from mentors or career advisors to ensure your documents stand out. 3. Limited Online Presence: In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for job seekers. A lack of professional visibility on platforms like LinkedIn can hinder your chances of being discovered by recruiters. To combat this, optimize your LinkedIn profile with a professional photo, compelling headline, and detailed work experience. Share relevant content, engage with industry peers, and actively participate in discussions to showcase your expertise and expand your network. 4. Poor Interview Preparation: Nervousness and lack of preparation often lead to subpar performance during interviews. To overcome this hurdle, thoroughly research the company and role you are applying for, practice common interview questions, and prepare thoughtful responses that highlight your skills and experiences. Additionally, consider conducting mock interviews with friends or mentors to build confidence and refine your communication skills. By addressing these key issues and implementing effective strategies, you can significantly improve your chances of getting hired and advancing in your career journey. Let's navigate the world of networking together and pave the way towards success! #CareerTips #Networking #LinkedInInsights #JobSearchSuccess

Networking can help you make ANY career transition ↔️ I've made a handful of small/minor career pivots myself, and I have friends & family who have made even BIGGER career pivots. There is one common element that helped each career pivot/transition story, and that is NETWORKING ✨. This Forbes article by career expert Caroline Castrillon captures this element perfectly and discusses how strategic networking efforts can help you make a career change or pivot! Remember, networking should be a consistent effort, almost like a habit. Don't just start when you need a job or when you have some obvious agenda. When you try to network with an alternative or hidden agenda, it comes across as inauthentic and disingenuous. With that said, here are the high-level of Caroline's five tips for networking for a career transition and my take on them + real stories of how they actually work 💁🏻♀️ ~ 1️⃣ Give contacts a chance to help. Reach out to people you already know and let them know that you're transitioning, or even make a post about it on LinkedIn! Let the world and the universe know your status and what you're up to! You'd be amazed at the people that come out of the woodwork and want to help you. When I started putting it out into the world that I wanted to do more speaking engagements, opportunities started coming my way! Just try it and see what happens! 2️⃣ Get valuable career advice. When my Dad realized that law school was something of interest, after a full engineering career (30+ years, 2x PE & MBA), he talked to lawyers he knew, including one of his former colleagues at his previous job. A good question to ask, specifically if you're making a career change, is, "If you were just starting out, what actions would you take to kickstart your career?" 3️⃣ Meet other career changers. Talk to other people who have transitioned into your target career, and if you can, find someone with a similar path/trajectory i.e SWE ➡️ PM. This way, you can learn about proven, tested strategies that have actually worked for people. 4️⃣ Practice your transition statement. I like to think of this as an edited, curated version of your "elevator speech," and remember to frame it as a story. Storytelling is crucial in interviews, and when you're making a career change, it's important to tell that story in a compelling way. 5️⃣ Build confidence. I think Caroline captured it perfectly when she said, "...confidence is not an innate, fixed characteristic. It’s a skill that can be developed." When my mom was transitioning from civil engineering to real estate sales, she built her confidence by working under another broker and building her resume. I built my confidence through a product fellowship and 2 product management internships! TL;DR Build confidence through experience and projects! https://lnkd.in/gA8ihBtu

Can I be vulnerable for a minute? There's a genuine part of me that wants to assist every person I come in contact with or reaches out to me. At times, this responsibility weighs on me, oftentimes keeping me awake at night. The sheer compassion I feel and my desire to make a positive impact drives me...however, I also recognize the reality that I can't fulfill every dream job aspiration. Which sincerely kills me. While I dedicate myself to this endeavor with strategic effort, I believe it's essential for job seekers to consider the following steps: ✅ Define Your Goals: Before reaching out to your network, be clear about what you're looking for in your career. Whether it's a specific role, industry, or company culture, having a well-defined goal will guide your networking efforts. Don't settle. Trust me, you'll be happier in the long run. ✅ Craft Your Elevator Pitch: Prepare a concise and compelling introduction that highlights your skills, experience, and what you're seeking. Make sure it's adaptable to different situations and captures your unique value. ✅ Leverage LinkedIn: Utilize your professional network on LinkedIn. Connect with colleagues, friends, and acquaintances, and yes- other recruiters! Engage with relevant content and share your insights to showcase your expertise. ✅ Attend Industry Events: Participate in conferences, workshops, and seminars related to your field. These events provide excellent opportunities to meet like-minded professionals and expand your network. ✅ Reach Out with a Purpose: When connecting with someone, be genuine in your approach. Clearly express your intentions, whether it's seeking advice, information about a company, or discussing potential opportunities. ✅ Offer Value: Networking isn't just about taking; it's also about giving. Share your expertise, offer assistance, or provide insights that could be beneficial to your connections. This reciprocity strengthens relationships. ✅ Follow Up: After making initial connections, don't forget to follow up. Express gratitude for their time and insights, and keep the conversation alive by providing updates on your progress. ✅ Be Patient and Persistent: Building a strong network takes time. Not every connection will lead to immediate results, but persistence pays off. Keep nurturing your relationships and staying active in your efforts. ✅ Continuously Learn: Stay updated on industry trends, developments, and best practices. This knowledge will not only enhance your conversations but also showcase your commitment to growth. Remember, networking is a two-way street. Just as I strive to help candidates find their dream jobs, your efforts and engagement in the networking process are crucial for achieving your career goals. 💪🏻 Stay persistent, authentic, and open to the possibilities that networking can bring. Your proactive approach can make a significant difference in your journey. As always, I'll do whatever I can to help! Wishing you success.

“You have to network in the U.S.” My ears used to bleed every time I heard this. When I moved to the U.S., everyone kept repeating it: “Build relationships.” “Get referrals.” “It’s all about networking.” But no one ever explained how to do it. So I figured it out myself. — I started with my professors. They’re always willing to help, and they have incredible alumni networks — students who now work at top companies. Most people just don’t ask. — Then I used LinkedIn — properly. And that’s how I landed my role at Microsoft. Here’s what I learned: *Don’t start with recruiters.* They’re overwhelmed with resumes screenings, cold messages, and coordination tasks. Your message may never be seen or prioritized. Instead, reach out to people who: - Are already in your target role - Work as managers or above - Have been at the company longer - Are often involved in hiring decisions - Know the team, culture, and expectations These are the people who can offer real insight — and real support. In my case, the person I built a relationship with at Microsoft: - Referred me internally - Reached out to the Hiring Manager - Ended up being on my interview panel That changed everything. If you’re job searching: - Be intentional with your outreach - Ask meaningful, curious questions - Don’t lead with “Please refer me” — build trust first When the relationship builds, they’ll ask for your resume! P.S. I help international students and professionals land internships and full-time jobs in the U.S. Follow me for practical tips on #networking #resumes #interviews #careerstrategy. #ThatIndianCoach – From where you are, to where you want to be!

If you’re searching for your next job or client, you know that your network is your most promising channel. What can you do to expand it? 1. Articulate Your Value & Goals: Clearly understand and communicate what you bring to the table, along with your near-term goals. When your current network understands your strengths and ambitions, they're better positioned to introduce you to relevant contacts or opportunities. 2. Network Authentically at Events: Whether it's a conference or a casual dinner party, seize the moment to engage with new people. A genuine conversation about your professional journey and goals can open doors to unexpected collaborations and connections. 3. Engage with Content on LinkedIn: Don’t just scroll; share your unique insights and ideas. Posting thoughtful content or comments establishes your expertise and can attract like-minded professionals to your profile. 4. Contribute Value in Comments: Go beyond the simple "Great post!" by leaving insightful comments on others’ content. This not only showcases your expertise but also makes you memorable, encouraging others to explore your profile and connect with you organically. Using these strategies has broadened my network and connected me with new opportunities. By actively sharing your value and engaging with people (IRL and online), opportunities can more easily “find” you. Bottom Line: Help others help you.

Networking, let's get this straight, isn't a game of how many business cards you can collect; it's about sowing seeds for relationships that bear fruit over time. It's not about who you know, it's about who wants to know you. Here's how you do it: 1️⃣ Dive into the virtual world. Attend webinars, online forums, or any digital gathering where industry leaders are speaking. Don't just be another name in the attendee list. Ask questions, engage in the chat, follow up with speakers or participants afterward. Make your presence felt. 2️⃣ But don't stop there. Physical presence still counts. Hit up local industry meetups, conferences, or seminars. When you're there, don't just hover around the snack table. Introduce yourself, start conversations, listen more than you talk. Be genuinely interested in what others are doing and find common ground. 3️⃣ Let's talk about informational interviews – a grossly underutilized tool. Reach out to professionals, not for jobs, but for insights. Ask them about their journey, the challenges they face, the trends they see. This is not about you asking for favors; it's about understanding their world. And here's the kicker: people love talking about themselves. Let them. ➡ ➡ ➡ But here's the crucial part: offer value in every interaction. Don't be a leech, sucking information and connections without giving anything back. Share your insights, offer your help, maybe connect them with someone in your network. It's a two-way street. And remember, the time to build your network isn't when you're desperate for a job. It's now. When you're not asking for a job, but for advice, connections, and insights. By the time you need your network, it should already be there, strong and waiting. Networking is a long game, play it wisely. #networking #linkedin #linkedinconnection #linkedinhacks

Are you looking to grow professionally through networking? Here are some expert tips to help guide your efforts: 1. Start by defining your objectives. Determine your goals before expanding your network. Having clear objectives will guide your networking efforts. 2. Focus on clarity when communicating with others. Avoid trying to impress with jargon or titles. Instead, focus on being understood quickly and easily. 3. Prioritize building relationships over collecting business cards. Add value to your network by asking how you can support others. This fosters trust and mutual support. 4. Help your network connect with each other. Introduce contacts who can benefit from each other's services or expertise. This adds value to your network and strengthens relationships. 5. Attend events that genuinely interest you, rather than just following the crowd. This allows you to be yourself and engage more authentically. Especially if you have a limited budget. 6. Networking is not just an event; it's a mindset. Be interested in others, ask powerful questions, and listen deeply. This approach helps build trust and lasting connections. 7. Schedule regular touch-base calls or meetings with contacts. This keeps relationships fresh and helps you support each other's work and career development. 8. Instead of focusing on what people do, get to know their motivations and passions. This deeper understanding can lead to more meaningful connections and longer lasting relationships. 9. Have a plan when attending networking events. Know who you want to meet and what you hope to gain from the event. This preparation can increase your chances of success. Pre-event planning. 10. Be attuned to the body language and vocal delivery of others. This awareness can help you interpret their intent and respond appropriately. 11. After networking, follow up with new contacts. Keep your promises and maintain the momentum of your relationships. Deliver some complimentary tips, ideas or recommendations. Remember, networking is a skill that requires time, effort, and patience. Building a strong professional network is an ongoing process that can open doors to new opportunities and enrich your professional and personal life.

My best advice for building a network: Network before you need to! What is the #1 cause for ineffective networking? Desperation. And where does desperation come from? Needing a job. Don’t make the mistake of waiting until you need a job or desperately want to leave your current job to start building a network. Those with the most seamless career transitions are always the ones with the strongest networks. Having a strong network can be the difference between getting hired into a new role with zero gap and endlessly applying for six months with no luck. Here are ways to build your network starting NOW: 1. Engage with other companies and employees on LinkedIn and/or social media. One way to get noticed by companies that you like is to engage with their content on LinkedIn or other social sites. Follow companies that you’re interested in or may want to work for in the future. Keep up to date with their progress, growth and initiatives. This goes for employees of the company as well. If companies or people see you consistently engaging with their content, it’s easier to facilitate a conversation with them, so you don’t have to shoot out those cringy, cold messages later. It also gives you great conversational ammunition for later when you may decide to reach out and strike up a conversation with someone at your dream company. They’ll be extra impressed if you’re educated about what is happening at their company. 2. Engage with employees inside your CURRENT company. Building a useful network is not just about using the “grass is greener on the other side” approach. Yes, it makes sense to start building relationships at companies that you may want to work for in the future, but don’t neglect the easiest connections you already have—the ones around you NOW! Ask for LinkedIn recommendations. Go to lunch with a manager or colleague. It’s so easy to just do your work and go home (or log off in a remote role). Building a relationship with people who could potentially help you later is worth the effort. 3. Orchestrate frequent informational interviews. Seek out informational interviews with professionals you admire or individuals working in your target companies or industries. These interviews are not about job openings but about gaining insight into their career paths and industries. Approach these conversations with a genuine interest in learning and networking, not just job-seeking. Remember, building a professional network is an ongoing process. Regularly check in with your contacts, offer support when needed, and be proactive in helping others when you can. By doing so, you'll have a strong and supportive network in place when you need it most, whether it's for job opportunities, career advice, or professional growth.