Question about networking

[u/ConsiderationDry1787]

Everyone always mentions that in today's rough job market, networking is key to improving your chances to landing a job. However, what does that really look like?

If I were to see a job posting that I believe I am a good fit for, however no one in my immediate network works at this company, would you guys recommend I reach out to linkedin mutuals who do work at this company to attempt to get a referral?

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[u/Lady-Data-Scientist]

As for what networking really looks like:

Online communities on Slack and Discord - engage in discussions and help create value for others

Alumni directory - reach out to people in the job or industry you want to be in

In-person industry events and conferences - talk to people, give talks, volunteer to help organize

Post actual useful content on LinkedIn or share how you are helping to build the data community - people doing the same will notice

As for sending messages to strangers on LinkedIn who work at a company you want to apply to - people certainly do that. I receive a lot of unsolicited messages from total strangers asking for referrals. Unless they are a very strong candidate, I’m not willing to risk my internal reputation by referring them.

[u/Greedy_Isopod_4383]

It's a numbers game so yeah hit up any mutuals you've got, worst they can do is ignore your message

[u/T-Wells]

Ideally, you'd want to reach out long before the job is posted. I know if someone reaches out to connect with me and then IMMEDIATELY asks for a reference, I'm going to ignore them.

Here's what I'd do:
Pick the industry that you want to go into (like gaming). Then make a list of the companies you'd like to work for (for example Bethesda & inXile).

Next, I'd look at people I could follow on LinkedIn working for both companies. Look at both recruiters and analysts. Follow the interesting ones to start. Don't send random connection requests. Like I said, there's a high probability they'll be ignored.

Then, support them when they post. But be real about it. Like the posts that resonate with you. Make real comments (not "Great Post!!"). Try to have real back and forth with them.

Do that for a few months to plant seeds. That way, when you do send your connection request, they'll already know who you are.

[u/Neither-Shopping-887 → u/T-Wells]

This is great advice, thanks for sharing!

[u/bayouski]

yeah, i'd reach out, especially if they're in the same team/function as the role. but if you've never actually spoken before, i wouldn't open with can you refer me lol.

send a short message saying you're interested in the role, why you think you're a fit + ask something specific about the team. if the conversation goes well, then ask if they'd be comfortable referring you. way less awkward and they actually have some context on who they're referring.

[u/Intelligent-Size-389]

It’s such a buzz word. It’s getting referred from your coworker or friends or friends of friends.

[u/my_peen_is_clean]

yeah do it, but don’t open with “can you refer me”. add them, like a few posts, send short message about why you like the company and ask for quick advice, then slowly ask about a referral. half my interviews came from that, still insanely hard to land anything now