Ways to Use Networking for Career Development

𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗗𝗠 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗿. 𝗜 𝘂𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗸. That it was only for extroverts, salespeople, or those who knew the “right” people. I couldn’t have been more wrong. The truth? LinkedIn changed my career more than any job board ever could. From landing internships to publishing research and breaking into power & energy, the biggest opportunities in my career didn’t come from job boards—they came from building the right connections. Yet, so many professionals hesitate to network strategically because they: * Feel awkward reaching out to strangers * Don’t know what to say in a cold DM * Fear getting ignored or rejected I get it—I used to be the same way. But once I started using LinkedIn the right way, I landed mentors, internships, and research opportunities that shaped my entire career. Here’s How You Can Do It Today: ✅ 𝗜𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗣𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵 * Look for professionals in your target field (engineers, hiring managers, senior leaders). * Use LinkedIn’s “People Also Viewed” section to find similar profiles. * Join industry groups to see who’s actively sharing insights. ✅ 𝗦𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗮 𝗠𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗚𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗮 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗲 Forget “Hi, can I pick your brain?” That doesn’t work. Instead, try this: 💡 𝗘𝘅𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗠 𝗧𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲: “Hi [Name], I came across your profile while learning about [topic]. I admire your work on [specific project]. I’d love to hear your thoughts on [question]. Would you be open to a quick chat?” ✅ 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗕𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗗𝗠 * Like and comment on their posts genuinely * Share their work and add your insights * Make your name familiar before sending a message ✅ 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗝𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗔𝘀𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗛𝗲𝗹𝗽 People respond better when you bring something to the table: * Share an article or resource relevant to their work * Offer a fresh perspective on one of their posts * Ask a specific, thoughtful question instead of just “Can you help me?” The Outcome: I’ve used this exact strategy to build meaningful relationships that led to: ✔ Internship opportunities before I even applied ✔ Research collaborations that boosted my career ✔ Insights from industry leaders that I couldn’t find anywhere else If you’re not leveraging LinkedIn for strategic networking, you’re leaving opportunities on the table. 💡 Try this today: Pick ONE person you admire, craft a thoughtful DM, and hit send

Networking can feel difficult, but it doesn't have to be. Following a few simple guidelines can 10x your results. The primary reasons most people struggle with networking is because: - They focus on the wrong people - They make it all about their own needs If you want better results from your networking? 1. Talk To People You're Genuinely Excited To Engage With Don't just reach out to someone because they might be able to help you get a job. Reach out to people who will help you level up no matter what. Reach out to people who are doing things you're genuinely interested in. That will make things much more authentic. 2. Give 3+ Times Before You Ask Don't get stuck on the number 3. The lesson here is to focus on giving value or making it about the other person first. The more you do that, the more social capital you build. That makes you more likely to get a "yes" when you do ask. 3. Engage In Ways That Create Energy For You Networking doesn't have to be a 30 minute Zoom call. It also doesn't need to be a boring email. Networking can be: - Engaging with LinkedIn content - Connecting with someone at a virtual event - Going for a walk while you chat with them on the phone - DMs on a social platform - Etc. You'll be most effective when you do this in ways that feel good to you. 4. Always Open The Door For The Next Interaction Way too many people finally land that networking convo, but have no idea what to say after to keep things going. Make a point to have a few questions or strategies that keep the door open. One of my favorites is to ask for a small piece of advice. Then you can act on it and follow up with your results. 5. Thank Everyone Who Helps You Not just the people who refer you in. Not just the people who actually got on a coffee chat with you. Thank the people who replied, who introduced you, who offer small pieces of advice, and everyone in between. Thank them when they initially help you. Then thank them again when you land that job. A small thank you note goes a long way.

Aimless networking won’t get you an interview: If you’re reaching out to people with: ❌ “Hey, are you hiring?” ❌ “Can you refer me for a role?” ❌ “I need a job—can we chat?” Then, you’re doing it wrong. Networking isn’t about ASKING for a job. It’s about BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS that create opportunities. Here’s how to have networking conversations that actually lead to job interviews: 1️⃣ Start with Genuine Interest and Intention of Building the Relationship After some research on the connections, reach out with curiosity, not desperation. Example: “I admire your career path in [industry]. What are some challenges you’re seeing within this space?” 2️⃣ Focus on Their Experience People enjoy sharing their journey. Ask thoughtful questions: ✔ What expertise have you developed in this role? ✔ What are the 2 biggest challenges you’re working on now? ✔ What skills have been most valuable for finding workable solutions? 3️⃣ Share Your Value—Naturally Instead of asking for a job, share what you’ve been working on (or had success in) that is relatable. Example: “I’ve been leading [specific projects] and applying my expertise in [industry]. Sometimes that experience can be a solution to X (one of the challenges they mentioned). 4️⃣ End with a Soft Ask and offer to be a resource for them. Don’t force a referral—invite guidance. Example: “Based on what I’ve shared, who else in your network would be appropriate to be introduced to?” 5️⃣ Follow Up & Stay Visible Keep the relationship alive—send a thank-you note along with a resource for them. Engage with their content, and if you met with a person they referred,  update them on your progress. The best networking is an exchange. It’s strategic and relational. Networking can be challenging if you view it one way.  Make it mutual. Let me know in the comments if you agree that both parties need to benefit from networking conversations and how you prepare to make that happen.

I recently go asked "what is one thing that no one tells you about networking when you're an international student?" When I came to the U.S. 6 years ago to study Data Science, I had no idea how important networking would be for my career. Coming from Spain, I thought hard work and a good resume would be enough. Spoiler: it wasn’t. As an international student, job hunting comes with extra challenges: visas, sponsorships, and navigating a system that sometimes feels overwhelming. But here’s the truth: networking changed everything for me. Here’s what worked: 1️⃣ Reaching out to alumni: - I was at Suffolk University in Boston, and I used LinkedIn to connect with alumni in Data Science. At first, it felt awkward—what could I possibly say? But I learned this: people love sharing advice when you ask the right questions. Instead of asking for jobs, I asked about their journeys, challenges, and advice. Those conversations didn’t just lead to referrals; they gave me confidence and clarity. 2️⃣ Leveraging LinkedIn: - LinkedIn became more than just a job board. I posted about projects I was working on, shared my thoughts on the industry, and commented on others’ posts. Over time, recruiters and professionals in my field started noticing me. 3️⃣ Attending industry events: - From local meetups to webinars, I treated every event as a learning opportunity. The key wasn’t handing out resumes—it was making meaningful connections. One conversation at a career fair even led to an internship that shaped my path. Looking back, I realized networking isn’t just about getting a job—it’s about building relationships. As an international student, those connections helped me navigate a career system I didn’t grow up in, and they became my biggest advantage. What’s your go-to strategy for networking? Let’s share tips below—I’d love to hear what’s worked for you!

When I first got into cybersecurity, I knew networking was key—but I had no idea where to start. Like many newcomers, I attended tech mixers, thinking they would help me build professional connections. But I quickly realized most weren’t about career growth. Instead of meaningful conversations, it was drinks flowing, music blasting, and people just looking to have a good time. Nothing wrong with that, but when it came to career opportunities, mentorship, or valuable discussions? Not much was happening. I’d leave with a few LinkedIn connections, maybe a vague “we should catch up,” but no real progress. That’s when I started looking for networking spaces where people were serious about cybersecurity—and these three made all the difference: ✅ 1. Local Tech Meetups Attending smaller, niche meetups changed everything. These events were filled with professionals sharing knowledge, career insights, and opportunities. I met people who helped me understand certifications, job roles, and career paths. If you’re serious about cybersecurity, look for meetups specific to your niche—whether it’s cloud security, risk management, or penetration testing. ✅ 2. Conferences Conferences exposed me to a higher level of networking. Here, people weren’t just making small talk—they were discussing industry trends, new technologies, and real-world security challenges. I met hiring managers, mentors, and peers who helped me advance in my career. Attending at least one conference per year is one of the best investments you can make. ✅ 3. LinkedIn & Online Communities I underestimated the power of LinkedIn and online networking. Engaging in cybersecurity groups, commenting on industry posts, and setting up virtual coffee chats helped me expand my network fast. I found tight-knit communities sharing job opportunities, study groups, and industry insights. These conversations led to referrals, partnerships, and new opportunities I wouldn’t have found elsewhere. Key Takeaway: If you’re early in your cybersecurity career, be intentional about where you network. It’s not about meeting people—it’s about finding the right people who challenge and inspire you. 🔹 Skip the networking events that feel more like a night out 🔹 Attend targeted meetups related to your field 🔹 Go to cybersecurity conferences where professionals are serious about growth 🔹 Engage on LinkedIn and join communities where real discussions happen Your network can open doors you never imagined. Where have you found the best networking opportunities in cybersecurity? Drop your thoughts below! 👇🏾 #Cybersecurity #Networking #CareerGrowth

The time to start networking is now. As professionals, sometimes we think “I don’t have the time to network.” The truth is, we all have the same amount of time - but spend it differently. If you hop on a Teams call today and HR joins with your boss and you are told your role is eliminated, one of the first things you might think of after the shock clears is: “who do I know that can help me find my next role.” That moment is not the time to begin to think about your network, it was actually 5 years ago when you got that promotion and the expanded responsibilities. Your professional network is as important as continuous learning, building skills for the future and being a high performer. Here are some ways for you to create space to network as well as practical tips: 1. Celebrate promotions and new roles of colleagues or people in your LI network. Take an interest. When someone leaves for a new company, put a reminder on your calendar for 90 days out and check in with them: how is X company and the new role going? 2. Develop a list of your top 10 companies you’d like to work for and see who you know that works there or connect with people there and begin to create connectivity: keep me in mind if you hear of a role that might be a fit and I can do the same for you. 3. Be willing to respond to LI messages from people you don’t know who might be seeking a role: answer questions and connect them to recruiting - I’m not sure about that role but here are a couple of recruiters in my company that might have more info. 4. Pay attention to where skills are going in your area of specialization and make the time to get entrenched and curious: when interesting roles surface internally or externally you want to have these skills not be caught on your back foot. 5. Be active on LinkedIn. Engage with posts, create your own content and share thought leadership around key topics or where your area of specialization is headed. Pro tip: don’t make the mistake of thinking LinkedIn is only for your external network. It can be equally important or even more powerful for building your internal network and brand at your current company - which can lead to new roles, expanded roles and other exposure. #opentowork #networking #careerjourney #careerprogression #skills #futureofwork

Building a high-level network is the best way to create 'career insurance' - Here are 7 ways you can network BEFORE you need a job And yes - I've done each of these myself. 1 - Connect a high-level leader to someone looking for podcast guests. Become a connector. Find podcast hosts that would be interested in leaders at your firm. 2 - Plan a 'Career Growth' session at work; invite select managers and leaders as guest speakers. Speaking opportunities will appeal to some leaders; give them an opportunity they can't pass up. 3 - Publish a collaborative LinkedIn article - reach out for quotes and comments from leaders or managers in the space. Reach out to 5–6 leaders and ask for 1 quote on an industry trend. Compile their insights into an article or post; tag them, and amplify their visibility. 4 - Send them an "I built this based on..." message Find a keynote or panel where a leader shared a framework or insight. Build a visual, write an article, or make a slide based on the idea; send it to them. 5 - Send a Video, but Make it About Them Instead of pitching or requesting, record a short video sharing a story of how their work impacted you or your team. Keep it under 60 seconds. 6 - Create a 'Modern Mentorship' Series Turn your learning journey into content. Interview 10 high-level leaders via email or LinkedIn DMs and ask 2-3 thoughtful questions. Share each response as a short post. 7 - Send Periodic 'Gratitude Messages' A simple message thanking them for their inspiration - or something valuable they taught you. Have you tried any of these proactive networking approaches? Let me know if/how they worked. ♻️ Repost if you found this list helpful! Follow me for daily job search strategies.

Career hack: have coffee with 1 person outside your company, every week, for a year. Whether you are a ceo or intern, this is singlehandedly the best thing you can do for your career, and you can kickstart it tomorrow. Networking is a flywheel you can start today, and it drives 1) general networking - expand your network, never know who will help with what 2) expanding your map - think of your strategy (this could be your personal career plan, your company's overall strategy, or anything in between) as a map. every conversation expands the map, and shows you whats just a bit farther off the page. 3) serendipity - putting yourself (and your goals) out into the world is the #1 best way to make things happen. you will be amazed at what comes your way. the best hack to get there: put a recurring event on your calendar called "coffee." create a doc of all the potential people you'd want to meet with. start reaching out, and scheduling them for 2-3 weeks in advance. once you are in the habit, the slot will start filling itself. but you have to get the ball rolling.

The most effective networkers understand a fundamental principle that distinguishes meaningful professional relationships from transactional interactions: they prioritize contributing value before seeking assistance.   Effective networking strategies focus on mutual benefit:   Pre-Event Research: Identifying attendees and understanding their professional challenges, recent achievements, or industry focus areas where you might offer insights or connections.   Value-Forward Conversations: Initiating discussions around industry trends, sharing relevant resources, or offering introductions to valuable contacts rather than immediately discussing personal career needs.   Strategic Follow-Up: Connecting post-event with thoughtful resources, articles, or introductions that address specific challenges discussed, rather than generic LinkedIn requests.   Long-Term Relationship Building: Maintaining consistent, value-driven contact with your network through sharing relevant opportunities, insights, or connections throughout the year.   This approach transforms networking from a series of favor requests into genuine relationship building that creates reciprocal value over time.   Professionals who consistently offer value before seeking assistance develop networks that actively support their career advancement because those relationships are built on mutual benefit rather than one-sided need.   The strongest professional networks emerge when individuals position themselves as resources for others' success rather than solely focusing on their own advancement needs.   What strategies have you found most effective for creating mutually beneficial professional relationships?   Sign up to my newsletter for more corporate insights and truths here: https://lnkd.in/ei_uQjju   #deepalivyas #eliterecruiter #recruiter #recruitment #jobsearch #corporate #networking #professionalnetworking #relationshipbuilding #careerstrategist

The most important decisions about your career are made in a room you are not in. Let that sink in. The hiring committee decides to hire you… or not. The promo committee decides to promote you… or not. Managers in calibration meetings decide what performance rating you get, which directly affects your compensation and your career trajectory. The list goes on. And you are not in the room. So how can you influence those key career decisions? The answer is simple, but not easy to execute: you have to get yourself on everyone’s radar. If all those people in those rooms talking about you know all the great stuff you’ve done, they’ll be more inclined to make a decision in your favor. But here’s the catch: those people rarely have visibility over your work, unless you made extra effort to raise their awareness. You have to go the extra mile to build your reputation. That’s why it’s a good idea to grab any opportunity you can think of to meet and be visible to colleagues in your wider circle. Think skip level, peers of your skip level, VP of the org, influential peers. The more the better.  Here are some ways to increase your visibility: ⭐ Offer to help ⭐ Solve problems ⭐ Invite folks to coffee chat ⭐ Present at All Hands meetings ⭐ Get a mentor and mentor others ⭐ Be ready for a quick pitch in the elevator ⭐ Join internal communities, like product circles  ⭐ Seek collaboration with a large number of teams Remember: while you may not be in every room where decisions are made, you can influence those decisions through your work, relationships, and reputation built over time. ⏭️ What's one thing you'll do this week to increase your visibility? Share in the comments 👇 #Career #Influence #NetworkNetWorth #Reputation #CareerAdvice #ProfessionalDevelopment #CareerGrowth