LinkedIn Networking Skills for Job Seekers

I spoke with over 20 software job seekers last month. Here's one of their most common frustrations: "I can never talk to a real person about my skills." Yet, all of them use online applications as their main strategy. Instead, they could be talking to "real people" in less than 2 weeks. Here's how you can do it in 6 steps: 1. Find a job posting that you're a great fit for. → Take note of the company that posted it. 2. On LinkedIn, search for your target role. → Head to "People" and filter by the hiring company. 3. Send 30 connection requests with personalized notes. → Most of them won't connect back. That's fine. 4. Study the profiles of those who connect back. → Look for things in common, or things you admire. 5. Message them a genuine compliment or question. → Don't request anything from them. 6. Ask for a quick conversation for their advice. → Don't ask for a referral, just to get their thoughts. On those conversations: • Be interested in them and listen to what they say. • Relate to them, ask questions, request their advice. • At some point, they'll reciprocate interest. • Now, talk about your job search. At the end, ask for introductions to someone else you can talk to. (NOT a referral.) Now, you're building relationships in the company you want to work at. The opportunities you're looking for are in these conversations. Not in online applications. P.S. Do you mainly apply online or network for interviews?

I’ve Applied to 150+ Jobs on LinkedIn—Here’s What’s Worked and What’s a Waste of Time I’ve been job hunting with various levels of intensity for the last nine months. Over 150 applications. Dozens of hours custom tailoring resumes and writing cover letters for each unique role and company. Here are my findings: 1.    Most of the jobs that I applied to on LinkedIn are fake: -Many roles I applied to were reposted after the initial posting.   -One job I really wanted, at one of the largest SaaS firms in the world has been up for 3+ years. 3 YEARS! 2.    No amount of custom tailoring your resume or cover letter will get you through HR’s resume screening process. 3.    Of the 150+ jobs I applied to as a cold applicant, I only received one callback. One. Not a great ROI on my time. 4.    This brings me to my ultimate conclusion- No one is going to get a job by only applying on LinkedIn. As a job seeker—this is infuriating.  It may feel like progress to “apply” to these roles, but deep down, you know 98% of them are ghost jobs. Here’s what I recommend job seekers do going forward. 1.     Network, Network Network -Job hunting is a job. Spend 2 hours a day networking to find your next opportunity. No exceptions. 2.    Use the “OpentoWork” sticker on LinkedIn -It felt REALLY scary to let the world know that I was looking for work, but I actually got one of my best interviews from just adding this update to LinkedIn. 3.    Never Search Alone -Use the networking guides Never Search Alone or The 2 Hour Job Search books to guide you through the process. Never Search Alone is a great way to have a support group while you go through the process. The 2 Hour Job Search provides frameworks and questions to ask as you network your way into the companies you want to work for-great reference for newbies who are new to networking for a job or for those who want to brush up their skills. 4.    Grow your network -You can connect with 100-200 people each week. Connect with people in industries and companies you’d like to work at. You’re going to have better luck following up on jobs that people post in their feeds than applying to listed postings. As for LinkedIn, please fix this – job seekers on your platform deserve better. Here’s a few recommendations on how to fix this process. ✅ Verified Job Listings – Companies should prove they're actively hiring before posting. No more ghost jobs! ✅ Expiration Dates – Auto-remove listings after 30 days unless employers confirm they’re still hiring. ✅ Transparency Metrics – Let job seekers see how many applicants have been interviewed or hired. If 11,456 people have applied to the same role, your users should know! ✅ User Feedback – Job seekers can flag suspicious postings. A role open for 3+ years? 🚩 ✅ Remove Offenders – Employers posting fake jobs should be restricted from posting for 12 months. For those who’ve recently been hired, what worked for you?  

This is what happens before you add networking to your skillset: You applied to 100+ jobs. No interviews. Maybe you spent hours creating your resume, added two projects to your portfolio and even wrote a cover letter. But every time you checked your inbox? Nothing but thin air. Not a single reply. At first, you assume it's your resume. So, you rewrite it. You apply again. Still no luck. Months pass. You take another course. You build another project. Still nothing. Now you’re wondering if switching careers was a mistake. "What is the problem?" My guess is that you're playing the job search in hard mode when you have beginner skills in this game. If there's one skill you must develop to become a master and start seeing results immediately, it's the ability to network. When you build the right network, this is how your job search changes: You never apply through job boards. The recruiter reaches out to you first. Your profile is optimized, hiring managers see your work, and people in the industry notice your name. Your job hunt becomes inbound, not outbound - meaning opportunities come to you. The goal of networking is simple: When a data role opens up, you're the first person the recruiter thinks of (because they've already seen your work and spoken to you). I speak about this inside of the Job Application Accelerator in detail, but here are three things you can do right now: Step 1: Fix Your LinkedIn Headline & Profile No -> "Aspiring Data Analyst | SQL | Python | Power BI" Yes -> "Data Analyst | I analyze large datasets to solve business problems | Experience with SQL, Tableau, Google Analytics | Marketing Business Intelligence" The goal is to write a job title that accurately reflects your experience and expertise rather than using a generic title. Step 2: Show Your Work (Publicly) Post one insight from every project you complete. No -> "I built a dashboard that showcases monthly sales" Yes -> "I cleaned 100,000 rows of messy sales data using SQL, and this is what I learned" Step 3: Connect & Start Conversations (The Right Way) I get multiple cold messages asking for jobs. That's a mistake. No -> "Hey Mo, can I get a job?" Yes -> "Hey Mo, I saw your post on [topic] and really liked your take, specifically [thing you liked]. I'm trying to get better at [skill]—do you have any resources you recommend?" Most people waste months applying online because they only focus on one side of the equation. But getting a job is much more than tailoring your resume or adding meaningful projects. Building relationships with other data professionals will lead to opportunities you can't find elsewhere. If you know someone struggling with job applications, send this to them. It might change their entire strategy.

One of the biggest mistakes job seekers make? Waiting until they need a job to start networking. I see it all the time. Someone loses a job, dusts off their LinkedIn profile, and starts cold messaging people for leads. By then, it’s already an uphill battle. Here’s the truth: Networking isn’t always about asking for a job. It’s about building relationships before you need them. The best time to connect with recruiters, hiring managers, and others in your industry? Right now! Wherever you’re at in your career. ✔ Engage with posts from people in your field. ✔ Send connection requests with a genuine note. ✔ Share your own insights and show up consistently. Then, when you do need a new role, you won’t be reaching out to strangers! You’ll be tapping into a network that already knows you. As a recruiter, I spend a lot of time creating relationships with people that I may not have a job for today. But I’m always thinking about the kinds of jobs we typically fill and constantly reaching out to relevant candidates. I’d be really behind if I waited to create those relationships all at once when a new job comes out. The same goes for job seekers. If you wait until you need a job to start networking, you’re already playing catch-up. Start building those relationships now. Engage. Connect. Be visible. Because when the time comes, you want your network to think of you before you even have to ask. #recruitingengineers #networking #jobseeker #jobhunt

Want to get in early at the next big start-up? You’re not going to land it through applications alone. When most people start job searching, they spend 90% of their time on applications, and 10% on networking. It’s backwards. Every big opportunity I’ve landed started with a conversation. Here’s what you need to know before you start: 📩 Clarity → know what you’re looking for and where you’re headed, so others can actually help you. 📩 Curiosity → reaching out because you’re genuinely interested in talking, not just asking for a favor. 📩 Consistency → doing it often enough that luck has a chance to find you. The best networkers I’ve coached aren’t the loudest in the room. They’re the ones who take time to listen, follow up, and show genuine interest. Swipe through for the exact framework I use to help founders and operators build real relationships that lead to the top startup jobs. And follow these five bonus tips to build your network: Research every person you reach out to. See what they’re interested in, what they’re working on, what they care about. Find small, genuine ways to offer value. Maybe they love coffee and Paris, and you send them a café recommendation for their next trip. Small details like that build a real connection. Reconnect with loose ties. Send a simple “Congrats on X - would love to hear how things are going.” message on LinkedIn. Use asynchronous networking. Comment on LinkedIn posts, reply to newsletters, or share an article someone wrote. Low-pressure, high visibility. Follow up every time. A thank-you note, an update, or a helpful link shows you value their time. Play the long game. Networking isn’t about what you can get today, it’s about building trust so opportunities come to you tomorrow. Networking is a skill, not a personality trait. And it’s one anyone can master with consistency.

LinkedIn has brought me career opportunities and friendships I never could have predicted. Yes, I have a large following now. But I started at zero (just like everyone else). Here are 8 LinkedIn tips to help you land your dream job and build a strong network: 1. Post thematically (not randomly) LinkedIn rewards activity. Instead of posting whenever inspiration hits, choose themes your network expects from you: • Industry insights • Insider lessons from books or conferences • Personal projects • Inspiration • Advice or asks 2. Talk about your industry, not yourself Industry insight = authority. The frequently shared LinkedIn content (in no particular order): • How-to posts • Lists • Deep, neutral analysis Teach first. Reputation follows. 3. Be a strategic “liker” Likes are memory cues. When you intentionally like someone’s post, you: • Stay top of mind • Create an instant conversation starter later • Build relationship momentum without DM’ing 4. Your profile is not a résumé It’s a living signal of who you are and what you care about. LinkedIn favors complete profiles, yet nearly half of users leave sections blank. Those extra sections (courses, volunteering, boards) make you more searchable and more human. Incomplete profile = invisible profile. 5. Kill buzzwords (they blur you) Words like strategic, passionate, expert are everywhere. Replace them with language you’d actually say out loud: • “Strategic” → decisive, judicious • “Experienced” → seasoned, practiced • “Leader” → guided, directed Your vocabulary is part of your brand. 6. Be an “adder,” not a commenter Comments aren’t for agreeing, but for adding value. Great comments: • Expand an idea • Share a relevant example • Offer gratitude or context If you want to impress someone, help their post become smarter. 7. Send smart connection requests Never send a blank request. Always answer: • How do I know them? • Why this person? • What’s in it for them? 8. Optimize for your audience Your profile shouldn’t appeal to everyone. Ask: Who do I need to succeed? • Freelancers → clients • Climbers → leaders • Switchers → future industry peers • Speak directly to them. 9. Network after you connect Connections decay without touchpoints. Once a month is enough: • Congratulate promotions • Share relevant info • Make an intro • Invite for coffee when traveling Consistency beats intensity. 10. Use “People Also Viewed” This section tells you: • Who LinkedIn thinks you are • Who you’re being compared to • Who you might be missing If you don’t like the comparison, adjust your language and connections. You don’t need to do all 10. Start with 1-2 and let the momentum compound. What’s one LinkedIn change you’ll make this week?

One of the most common questions I hear from job seekers is, "How do I stand out in the application process?" 🤔 And, I get it. In a world where 'Easy Apply' is used by everybody and their brother, resumes and cover letters are looking one and the same, and positions are highly competitive, it's important to set yourself apart from other applicants. Most of the time, I see job seekers wanting to set themselves apart in their application materials. But, truthfully, I don't think this is the way to go (at least, not fully) 😶 Especially not when... ➡ Employee referrals are 4x more likely to be hired ➡ Roughly 80% of job openings are NEVER advertised ➡ Nearly 80% of jobs are filled through networking efforts Yes, your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile are important. These materials need to highlight your skills, achievements, personal brand, and character. But, people = jobs 💼 If you want to approach your job search proactively and with the right mindset, you might want to... ✅ Identify alumni, current employees, and hiring managers to network with. Get industry advice on your career materials, information about application processes, and referrals if the opportunity is a good fit. ✅ Spend less time on volume of applications and more time on quality of applications. Every application you submit should have a person 'attached' to it in some way (you know someone on the hiring team, you met a future colleague at a networking event, etc.). ✅ Prepare samples of your work to share. Showing an example of your work and skillset in an interview, networking call, or cold outreach message goes a long way. Whether that means pulling up your LinkedIn profile to show some of your Featured items or toggling over to your GitHub, examples demonstrate more than words! I share more insights on the hashtag #JobSearch in my recent TikTok 💼 Check it out below! https://lnkd.in/ggfQytUV

Most mid-career job seekers dread this part. Networking. Not because they don't know people, but because asking for help feels wrong. Especially after years of being the one others turned to. Here's how to reframe it entirely: You're not asking for a favor. You're offering a conversation. Try this instead of "Are you hiring?": Find someone on LinkedIn who works in your target role or company. Send this: "Hi [Name], I found your profile while learning about [desired role]. I'm pivoting from [current background] and your path really stood out. I'd love to connect and follow your work." No ask. No pitch. Just genuine interest. Then, after connecting: "I'm exploring a transition into [role] after [X] years in [field]. Your journey is exactly the kind of move I hope to make. Would you be open to a 15-minute conversation?" Most people say yes to that. Because it's not transactional. It's human. The job market rewards those who build relationships before they need them. Start the conversation before you're desperate for an answer. When's the last time a networking conversation opened an unexpected door? ♻️ Repost to help a fellow professional in transition. 🔖 Follow Giselle Moratin, MBA for practical job search strategy.

🌟 The Power of Networking in Your Job Search 🌟 I have been able to land two separate opportunities with fortune 500 companies in a field I have minimum experience all thanks to networking. In today’s competitive job market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed as job seekers hit the “apply” button on countless listings, hoping for a response. But let’s talk about a more effective approach: networking. ✨ **Why Networking Works:** 1. **Personal Connections:** When you network, you're building relationships. People are more likely to refer you to their company if they know you, trust you, and understand your skills and values. 2. **Insider Information:** Networking allows you to gain insights into the company culture and unadvertised job openings. This knowledge can give you a significant edge over other candidates. 3. **Tailored Opportunities:** By connecting with others in your field, you can learn about roles that might suit your unique talents, rather than applying blindly and hoping for the best. 4. **Mentorship and Guidance:** Networking fosters opportunities for mentorship. Experienced professionals can provide valuable advice and feedback, helping you refine your job search strategy. 5. **Reputation Building:** Engaging with others in your industry builds your professional reputation. When people think of your skills, they are more likely to recommend you for roles. 💼 **Getting Started:** - Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups. - Leverage LinkedIn by connecting with alumni, former colleagues, and industry leaders. - Don’t hesitate to reach out for informational interviews; people often appreciate the chance to share their experiences. Remember, it’s not just about who you know, but about who knows you. Start building those relationships today, and you might just find your next job is closer than you think! #JobSearch #Networking #CareerDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #JobHunt #CareerAdvice

Need tips on how to utilize LinkedIn in your job search? I’ve been asked more than ever lately—even by friends & family—for help in their job search. One of the first questions I always ask is: “𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐝𝐈𝐧?” The most common responses I get: “Not really…” “I have a profile, but I don’t use it.” “No, I just have my resume.” Totally understandable. I didn’t realize the power of LinkedIn until I got into recruitment myself. 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞’𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠—𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐝𝐈𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐝𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐞!! Your resume is still important. But don’t just stop there. UTILIZE LINKEDIN! 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐞’𝐬 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭: 𝟏. 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐢𝐥𝐞: • Add all your work experience and full descriptions to your experience (highlight tangible achievements!) • Write a bio that includes what you're looking for + a bit of your story • Use a professional photo, a standout headline, and a personalized header 𝟐. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: • Tell your story—people connect with people!! • Post personal content to show your personality • Share your wins and losses (yes, both!) • Share your thoughts on industry topics • Engage with others in your space—comment, support, connect 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞. 𝟑. 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲: After applying to jobs and engaging with the hiring managers content, you should reach out!! • Engage with industry leaders, hiring managers, peers, and even family • When you reach out, reference their content or profile—this shows you're being personable, not transactional. At the end of the day, a resume can only say so much. Your LinkedIn profile is your chance to showcase who you are beyond just your work experience. 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞—𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡!! If anyone needs help with this, please let me know!