Networking serves many purposes. It can help you land a job, and it can also help you continue advancing a tech career as you gain experience. While it’s essential to any job search, networking can be challenging. How do you break through to people and make lasting connections?
In this post, we’ll review tips for effective networking, specifically if you’re looking for a job in tech. We’ll also cover how our career services team helps you prepare for and navigate networking and the job search.
The impact of tech job networking
During the job search, networking opens doors to hidden opportunities and roles that may not be officially listed. According to some estimates, up to 70% of jobs aren’t publicly shared. This demonstrates the breadth of opportunities that exist beyond major job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn. Your network might be able to share opportunities with you and/or recommend you to their hiring manager when you apply.
Additionally, networking can have a positive impact on your frame of mind during a job search and well into your career. A study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that “individuals who engage in networking behaviors are more satisfied with their careers.” Researchers also noted that networking “can contribute to differential salary growth over time” and called networking “an investment that pays off in the future.”
Tips for successful networking
Creating and maximizing your network is crucial, so it’s important to approach it effectively. This requires thoughtfulness centered on building connections and showing up as a valuable resource for others, not just as someone looking for a job.
Here are some tech job networking tips:
- Make Contact: LinkedIn is a great place to start, but don’t stop there! Attend online or in-person industry events, leverage your alumni network if you attended a school or training program, and participate in job fairs. Any event or resource that connects you with tech professionals can be valuable.
- Be an Active Listener: Treat every interaction as a learning experience. Focus on meaningful conversations, not just talking about your own goals. Remember, you want to build lasting relationships, not just search for a singular job (even if that’s your current motivation).
- Add Value: Show genuine interest in the challenges faced by tech leaders, managers, and the future peers you encounter and talk to. Offer insights, share helpful resources, or suggest ideas of your own.
- Follow Up: After meeting someone, reach out with a thoughtful message. Thank them for their time, mention something specific from your conversation, and express your interest in staying connected.
- Be Consistent: Networking isn’t a one-and-done process; it’s an ongoing effort. Make time regularly to reach out, engage, and nurture your professional relationships.
How Hack Reactor Supports Tech Job Networking
Networking can feel daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our career services provide the tools and support you need to build lasting connections and create a network that helps with mentoring, skill development, and the job search.
Learn more about our coding bootcamps, and start your application today!