Networking

It’s been estimated that 70-85% of jobs are part of the hidden job market. This is a staggering figure, begging the question of how to get jobs filled if they are not advertised.

It’s all about networking! Networking is crucial for career advancement, as it offers access to hidden job opportunities, industry insights, and professional growth. By building relationships with mentors and peers in your industry (or the industry in which you wish to work), you can gain knowledge, foster collaboration, and increase your visibility. It also accelerates career development.

Networking may not come naturally, and that’s OK. To build skills and stay sharp, it requires practice. It’s also important to consider that different skill is necessary when networking virtually such as ensuring a professional environment (background, profile photo, attire) as well as virtual etiquette (making eye contact, resolving technology issues, following visual queue to interact but not interrupt). Being ready with a brief introduction of yourself is key to every networking conversation. Pick a friend and practice if you’re new at this!

“What do I say?” might be your next question. Prepare thoughtful questions relevant to the person you’re meeting. Know their background and remember why you contacted them. Effective networking questions shift the focus from transactional (“what do you do?” or “are your hiring?”) to narrative and value, making you more memorable while building genuine rapport. Questions like “How did you get started in your career?", What’s the biggest challenge you’re currently facing in your industry?”, and “What did you do to prepare yourself to enter your industry?” invites storytelling and reveals the unique motivations and pivotal moments behind their professional path.

I’m leading a virtual networking “how to” with graduate students and would love to gather a list of networking questions…

What are your favorite networking questions?