Networking is often perceived as an intimidating, formal process reserved for extroverts or seasoned professionals. But the truth is, it mirrors what we naturally do every day talking to friends, helping neighbors, connecting with parents at school events, or meeting colleagues at community gatherings. At its core, networking is simply building relationships with people who know you, trust you, and are willing to help when they can.
In today’s job market, networking is an essential skill. That’s why Coast Capital has partnered with Randstad RiseSmart Canada to provide strategies, expert advice, and market intelligence to build your career and income potential. They recommend dedicating 70% of your job search to networking activities from coffee chats to industry meetups because networking consistently proves to be one of the most effective ways to uncover opportunities. Here are the best ways to get started.
Where is your next job really coming from?
While job boards account for just 14% of hires, internal career pages and employee referrals make up 61% of successful placements. Networking amplifies your visibility across both more effective channels.
Online job postings
While job boards are a common starting point, they are also the most competitive avenue. A typical job posting receives around two hundred applicants, and only 4–6 candidates make it to the first interview stage. Online sites remain useful, but relying on them exclusively creates a bottleneck in your job search.
Word of mouth
Before a role is even posted, hiring managers often ask their networks for referrals. This means opportunities can circulate informally long before they are visible to the public. Referred candidates are twice as likely to be interviewed and 40% more likely to be hired. The takeaway: the more people who understand your career goals, i.e., what roles you’re targeting and the value you bring, it makes it easier for others to advocate for you at the right moment.
Networking directly with hiring managers
Because job postings are oversaturated and word of mouth plays such a critical role in hiring, the most effective way to influence both channels is to raise your personal brand profile by networking directly with hiring managers.
Reaching out to hiring managers with thoughtful, well-researched messages can open unexpected doors. When you articulate an understanding of their challenges and position yourself as a solution you shift from being an applicant to being a potential asset. In some cases, hiring managers has even created roles for individuals who demonstrate unique value.
General networking do’s and don’ts
Do:
✔ Prepare your Professional Value Proposition (PVP)
Your PVP, sometimes called an elevator pitch, is a concise introduction summarizing who you are, what you do, and for what you are aiming. It helps others understand your strengths and how they can support you.
✔ Focus on relationships, not transactions
Networking is strongest when it is built on genuine relationships rather than quick exchanges. Offer value by sharing helpful resources, endorsing others, or creating opportunities.
✔ Reach out to potential contacts directly on LinkedIn
Start with a warm, friendly message that acknowledges their work, expresses genuine interest, and opens the door to conversation. This gentle approach helps nurture new connections on LinkedIn and gradually build them into meaningful, long‑term relationships.
Don’t:
✘ Don’t ask for a job
Most people you speak with aren’t decision-makers. Instead, ask for insights, advice, or introductions. These conversations often lead to better opportunities than direct job requests.
✘ Don’t spam or cold-call random contacts
Bulk emails or reaching out to strangers for job requests can damage your credibility. Instead, focus on warm connections and intentional conversations.
✘ Don’t be pushy
Persistency is helpful; pressure is not. Avoid excessive follow-ups or overly direct meeting requests with people you don’t know yet. Aim for respectful and gradual relationship-building.
✘ Don’t forget to follow up
Networking is a long game. Staying connected even after you land your next role strengthens your network and keeps future doors open.
Ready to Start Networking? Begin with Authentic Conversations
Once you identify potential contacts, reach out through LinkedIn, once some rapport is established you can naturally follow up with a request for a short 20‑minute informational chat to gain insights. These short conversations offer valuable insights into career paths, daily responsibilities, and industry expectations while helping you build genuine relationships. Afterward, send a thoughtful thank you, look for ways to give back, and maintain the connection as you continue practicing and scheduling future conversations.
Here are some helpful questions to guide your discussions:
- What led you to choose your current profession?
- What challenges do you address most often in your role?
- What path did you take to reach this position?
- What advice would you give someone entering this field?
- What qualifications are essential for success?
Next steps
- Practice networking conversations with friends or family.
- Schedule your first few 20-minute meetings
- Build momentum through consistent outreach and follow-up.
Authentic networking is not about collecting business cards or sending mass emails, it is about cultivating real connections that help you grow, learn, and ultimately land your next opportunity.
Resources:
5 tips to build your personal brand | The Blog
How to increase your visibility on LinkedIn | Randstad Canada
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This content is for general information purposes only. Coast Capital has partnered with Randstad RiseSmart Canada to provide career-related information, developed in collaboration with Randstad RiseSmart Canada and made available to you at no cost through Coast Capital.
