The power of networking begins with connection
In today’s volatile workplace and rapidly changing job market, one thing remains constant: relationships matter.
Networking is about staying connected, visible, and engaged with the people who know your work and believe in your impact.
In uncertain times, your network becomes one of your most valuable professional assets. 🤝
A few data points reinforce why it matters:
📊 54% of workers say they landed their job through a personal or professional connection, making networking one of the most effective job search strategies.
📊 Between 70% and 85% of roles are filled through networking or referrals, highlighting how many opportunities happen through relationships rather than postings.
📊 Up to 70% of jobs are never publicly advertised, often referred to as the “hidden job market.”
This is why maintaining and nurturing your network matters, whether you're navigating a career transition, exploring your next leadership opportunity, building partnerships for your organization, or simply staying connected to your professional community.
Whether you're rebuilding your career or strengthening your organization, it starts the same way: let the people who know your work and believe in your impact know what you're working on and where you want to go next.
For some, that looks like reconnecting with a former colleague, mentor, or classmate. For others, it looks like building the internal relationships that help you attract talent, support your team, and shape a culture people want to stay in.
Networking is not self-promotion.
It is clarity about who you are, the value you bring, and the impact you want to make.
A few months ago, I had the opportunity to explore this topic further with Jo Ilfeld, PhD, during a LinkedIn Live conversation about professional branding and authentic connection.
If you would like to watch the conversation, you can find it here:
It raises an important reflection: Who in your network have you connected with recently?
