So, full disclosure: I wanted to do an episode on networking, covering it from a perspective I haven’t yet addressed. That’s not always easy when you’ve done more than 300 episodes! I’ve done episodes on how to network throughout your career, but today I wanted to focus on networking as a major component of your job search strategy. I ended up deciding to pull pieces from some other episodes I’ve done on networking while also adding fresh, new content. So here goes. Why Should I Network? -As many as 85% of jobs are gotten through networking, with 70% or more of all jobs being in the Hidden Job Market. -Hiring managers like to hire people they know. In the absence of people the hiring managers personally know, they like to hire people who are known by people the hiring managers know, like, and trust. Many companies have a referral program for this very reason. -When you are just applying online to the company’s website or via sites like LinkedIn, it is akin to being in a very crowded auditorium, trying to get the attention of the people on stage. It’s very difficult.  -When you have a conversation with a decision maker in the absence of a posted job, you are in competition with no one. This is where the real magic happens. -Even when you have a world-class resume and superior LinkedIn profile like the ones I create for my clients, you are still not fully dimensional. That can only happen through personal interaction. -Once you’ve established a relationship with someone who is in a position to hire you or advocate for you, your shortcomings as they relate to the job qualifications may become less significant. Keep in mind that, as you network, you aren’t asking people for a job. You are asking for leads, referrals, suggestions – and hopefully, for them to make an introduction on your behalf. Group NetworkingIf you are looking in your local area for an opportunity, an in-person networking event may be a great option for you. Keep in mind, however, that even if you are looking for positions in another city or state or a remote opportunity, the people you meet at a local networking event will have friends, colleagues, and family members in a wide range of roles as a wide range of companies – possibly even throughout the world. My recommendation is to identify 2-3 potential group networking opportunities, then give each at least two tries before crossing them off your list. Here are some suggestions: -Chamber of Commerce -Rotary, Kiwanis, and other service clubs -Your place of worship -Your university alumni association -Meetup/Facebook events -Events you attend on your own – if there are people there, you can network -Professional association meetings (your own and others’) -Educational/training event -Causes you volunteer with/are on the board of In addition, there are online networking events, especially since Covid. I belong to a group called Ellevate Women’s Network – do some googling and see what you can find that interests you. How to Work the EventThis depends, of course, on the setup of the event, but I want to give you some tips and considerations. -Set a goal. Depending on the overall size and composition of the group, decide ahead of time how many people you want to speak with. Alternatively, you may decide to network until you find someone who ____ (fill in the blank). -The all-important first impression. Smile, give a strong handshake, make eye contact as you introduce yourself. Repeat the other person’s name as a way to help you remember it. -First be interested, then interesting.