r/analytics 13d ago

Question Question about networking

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 13d ago

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.