That’s where networking matters. Using your personal and professional network isn’t about asking people for favours or sending awkward LinkedIn messages to strangers. It’s about staying connected, building genuine relationships, and making sure people know what kind of opportunities you’re open to.
If you’re actively job hunting or simply thinking about your next move, your network can play a major role in helping you uncover opportunities, gain industry insight, and connect with the right people.
Why networking still matters in a job search
A large portion of hiring happens through referrals, recommendations, or existing professional relationships. Employers often trust referrals because they reduce hiring risk and help identify candidates who are a strong fit for the team and culture.
Networking also gives you access to the “hidden job market”, roles that may never be formally advertised. That doesn’t mean every contact will lead directly to a job. More often, networking helps by:
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introducing you to the right people
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sharing industry insight or market trends
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helping you understand where opportunities are emerging
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increasing your visibility within your field
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building long-term professional relationships
The strongest networks are built over time, not only when you need something.
Start with the people you already know
A good network is usually closer than you think. Start by thinking about former colleagues or managers, university or TAFE connections, industry peers, clients or suppliers, recruiters you’ve worked with before, friends, family, or community contacts, and professional associations or networking groups. You don’t need hundreds of connections to network effectively. A smaller group of trusted professional relationships can often be more valuable than a large list of people you barely know.
Be clear about what you’re looking for
One of the biggest mistakes people make when networking is being too vague. If someone asks what kind of role you’re looking for, make it easy for them to understand and remember.
For example:
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the type of role you want
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industries you’re targeting
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the skills or experience you bring
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whether you’re open to contract, permanent, hybrid, or remote work
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the locations you’re considering
Clarity helps people think of relevant opportunities or introductions.
Use LinkedIn properly
LinkedIn has become one of the most effective networking tools for job seekers, but many people only use it when they’re unemployed. A strong LinkedIn presence can help recruiters and hiring managers find you before you even apply for a role.
A few simple ways to improve your visibility:
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update your headline and work history
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make sure your profile reflects your current skills and achievements
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connect with people you’ve worked with
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engage with industry content occasionally
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follow companies and leaders in your field
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let trusted contacts know you’re open to opportunities
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You don’t need to become a “personal brand.” Consistency and professionalism matter far more than constant posting. Read more on how to get your LinkedIn profile noticed.
Reach out without making it awkward
A networking conversation doesn’t need to feel transactional. Keep messages direct, polite, and realistic. Most people are happy to offer advice or point you in the right direction if approached respectfully.
Instead of immediately asking for a job, focus on building the relationship by asking about industry trends, seeking insight into the company or broader market, requesting career advice, or asking whether they know someone else worth speaking to. This approach keeps the conversation open, genuine, and far more valuable in the long run.
People generally respond better to genuine conversations than copy-and-paste networking messages.
Don’t disappear when things are going well
One of the best ways to build a strong professional network is to maintain it even when you’re not job searching. That could mean:
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checking in with former colleagues occasionally
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congratulating someone on a new role or promotion
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sharing useful industry information
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attending industry events or webinars
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staying connected through LinkedIn
Professional relationships are easier to maintain than rebuild from scratch.
Networking works both ways
Good networking isn’t only about what you can gain. Strong professional relationships are built on mutual value. If you can, look for ways to add value by introducing people to useful contacts, sharing relevant opportunities, offering advice or support, recommending strong candidates, and helping others build meaningful connections. Approaching networking with a give‑first mindset builds trust and makes relationships far more sustainable over time.
People remember those interactions. Networking is ultimately about building professional trust over time.
Job searching can feel competitive, especially in a changing market. But networking remains one of the most effective ways to uncover opportunities and stay connected to what’s happening in your industry.
You don’t need to be highly extroverted or attend constant networking events to build meaningful professional relationships. Often, it starts with staying visible, reaching out to people you already know, and having genuine conversations about where you want your career to go.
The strongest networks are built gradually, and they often become one of the most valuable parts of your career long-term. Read more related content to support your career growth and future‑ready skills.
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