The 8 Networks you Should be Tapping into!
Your network isn't just who you know. It's who knows what you're looking for.
Happy Monday!
One of the most common things I hear from job seekers is: "I don't really have a network."
Yes, you do. You're just not seeing it clearly or tapping into it strategically.
Today I'm breaking down the 8 networks you already have access to, why each one matters, and how to start activating them before you need them.
Because here's the truth: the best time to invest in your network is before you're in job search mode. The second best time? Right now.
Let's get into it.
The 8 Networks You Can Tap Into
1. Current & Former Colleagues
These are the people who've seen you work. They know your strengths, your work ethic, and how you show up on a team. Former managers, peers, cross-functional partners. They can vouch for you, refer you, and tip you off to opportunities before they're posted.
Action: Reconnect with 2-3 former colleagues this week. A simple "Hey, I've been thinking about our time at [Company] and wanted to check in" goes a long way.
2. Friends & Family
Don't underestimate your personal network. Your cousin's neighbor might work at your dream company. Your college roommate might know a hiring manager in your field. People want to help, but they can't if they don't know what you're looking for.
Action: Let 3-5 people in your personal circle know you're exploring new opportunities and what kind of roles you're targeting.
3. Alumni Networks
You share a common bond with fellow graduates and many are willing to help. Universities often have alumni directories, LinkedIn groups, and networking events specifically designed to connect grads.
Action: Use LinkedIn's alumni search tool to find people from your school working at companies or in roles you're interested in. Reach out with a personalized message.
4. Industry Peers
These are people in your field, whether you've met them at conferences, in LinkedIn groups, or through professional associations. They understand your work, speak your language, and often have insight into where the opportunities are.
Action: Join an industry-specific LinkedIn group or Slack community and start engaging. Comment on posts, share insights, and build visibility.
5. Recruiters & Hiring Managers
If your goal is landing a job, these are your key contacts. Build relationships with recruiters who specialize in your industry and don't be afraid to reach out directly to hiring managers at companies you're targeting.
Action: Identify 3 recruiters in your field and connect with them on LinkedIn. When you reach out, be clear about what you're looking for.
6. Industry Leaders & Influencers
These are the thought leaders, speakers, and voices shaping your industry. While you may not land a direct referral from them, engaging with their content builds your visibility and sometimes opens unexpected doors.
Action: Follow 3-5 industry leaders and start engaging with their posts. Thoughtful comments get noticed.
7. Potential Mentors & Coaches
These are people whose careers you admire, people who've been where you want to go. A mentor can offer guidance, perspective, and sometimes introductions that accelerate your path.
Action: Identify 1-2 people you'd love to learn from and send a thoughtful outreach message asking for a 15-20 minute conversation.
8. Peer Connections in Your Desired Role
These are people already doing the job you want. They can give you insight into what the role really looks like, what skills matter most, and how to position yourself for the transition.
Action: Find 2-3 people on LinkedIn who hold your target role and ask for an informational interview.
The Biggest Mistake? Waiting Until You Need It
Most people only think about networking when they're in active job search mode. But by then, you're starting from scratch and it shows.
The professionals who land roles faster are the ones who've been investing in relationships all along. They've stayed in touch. They've added value. They've shown up consistently.
So even if you're not job searching right now, start building. Comment on posts. Send check-in messages. Attend one event this quarter. Small, consistent effort compounds over time.
Your next opportunity is one conversation away. But that conversation won't happen if you haven't planted the seeds.
The Bottom Line
You have more network than you think.
The question is: are you activating it?
→ Map out who you already know across these 8 categories
→ Identify the gaps, where do you need to build new connections?
→ Set a goal: reach out to 3 people this week
→ Invest in your network before you need it
Networking isn't about transactions. It's about relationships. And the best relationships are built over time, not in a panic.
Want help building a networking strategy that actually works? That's exactly what we do inside coaching. We build clarity on who to reach out to, what to say, and how to show up with confidence.
AND I have a really cool online system for us to track your networking progress, set goals together and stay organized!
Book a free discovery call and let's talk about your next move. https://www.riseupcareercoach.com/contact
Here is a FREE networking guide that I give to each of my 1:1 clients. Grab yours here: https://www.riseupcareercoach.com/network-like-a-pro
As always, hit reply and tell me: which of these 8 networks do you need to invest in most? I read every response.
Talk soon,
Alyssa
P.S. Networking may feel uncomfortable at first, but remember: your next opportunity is only one conversation away. Stay consistent, show up with curiosity, and keep putting yourself out there. You've got this. 💛
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