Your network is more than just a list of names—it’s a living ecosystem, quietly shaping your career path in ways you may not even realize. Consider it the root system beneath a forest: mostly hidden, but essential for growth, resilience, and opportunity. Research makes this clear, 70% of workers land jobs through personal connections at companies, according to Forbes, and up to 80% of jobs are filled through networking rather than traditional applications. In today’s job market, your network isn’t just helpful—it’s invaluable.
But the magic of networking isn’t confined to your inner circle. Sociologist Mark Granovetter’s “strength of weak ties” theory shows that acquaintances and friends-of-friends—your so-called “weak ties”—are often the bridges to new opportunities, not your closest confidantes. These connections act like gateways, opening up access to new and unexpected opportunities.
So as you go about your daily life—volunteering, hosting a game night at home, or cooling down after a workout—be open about your goals and what you’re hoping to find next. You never know, the friend of a friend might be the person who connects you to your next big opportunity.
Check in on your village
- Conduct a regular network check-in: Systematically review and categorize your contacts. Who are you connected to? Where are the gaps? This is like mapping the terrain before a journey—knowing where you stand helps you chart where to go next.
- Align your network with your goals: Ask yourself if your connections reflect your career ambitions. Are you linked to people in your target industries or roles?
- Start small: Reconnect with one dormant contact each month. Think of it as watering one plant at a time—over time, your whole garden flourishes.
Networking that feels like you
- Keep it simple: If large events feel overwhelming, focus on low-pressure, one-on-one conversations or online exchanges. Networking doesn’t have to mean working the room; it can be as simple as a thoughtful message or a coffee chat.
- Integrate networking into your routine: Share an interesting article, offer your expertise, or check in with colleagues. These small gestures, repeated over time, build authentic relationships.
- Don’t be intimidated by titles: Remember, you bring a unique perspective—think of it as having a PhD in both their culture and your own, while they likely know very little about your background. Embrace that confidence and authenticity; your story and insights are valuable and can open the door to meaningful conversations.
Build relationships through value and reciprocity
- Offer support first: Shift the focus from self-promotion to genuine connection by sharing knowledge or making introductions.
- Seek and provide mentorship: Building a network of diverse mentors and peers makes networking more accessible—especially for introverts or those from underrepresented backgrounds.
- Maintain consistency: Regular, small gestures—like thank-you notes or sharing useful resources—keep relationships active and authentic.
A net that works
- Track your growth: Use simple metrics, such as the number of new connections or meaningful conversations each month, to monitor your progress.
- Reflect and adjust: Regularly review what feels natural and effective. Networking should evolve with you—what works today might not work tomorrow.
- Make networking part of who you are: When these practices become routine, networking shifts from a chore to a rewarding part of your professional life—even for skeptics or introverts.
In job searching, it’s common to push forward on your own, but as the African proverb says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Networking isn’t just a tactic, it transforms the job search from a solo sprint into a shared journey.
By reaching out with curiosity, sharing your experiences, and inviting others into your journey, you build a network that not only supports your career growth but also offers encouragement, mentorship, and a sense of belonging through every transition.
To put this into practice, don’t limit yourself to official channels or talent acquisition teams. Research people at your prospective companies who share something with you, whether it’s a similar background, values, or career path. When you reach out, those connections are more likely to see themselves in your story and offer genuine support. And remember to tap into communities like Omek and its partners; connecting with people who share your vision or experience can lead to unexpected opportunities and meaningful collaborations.
Photo by Shannon Kanhai
