TIN #113 - How to Activate Your Hidden Network and Find New Opportunities
Struggling with Networking? Here’s How to Reconnect and Expand Your Circle
Hey there!
I recently joined an episode of John Pezoulas’s Job Search School with Chelsea Jay and Colleen Paulson.
Chelsea talked about how to find the perfect boss as you’re job searching.
Colleen gave her best resume and cover letter tips.
And I talked about three common networking challenges and some bonus tips on how to keep your networking momentum going.
Watch the whole video to see Chelsea and Colleen’s tips, but for the networking tips, check ‘em out below 👇
This issue takes about 5 minutes to read…
Before We Get Started:
My online course, “5 Steps To Grow Your Professional Network,” is FREE for all my newsletter subscribers. Learn the process I use everyday to grow my professional network.
Each week, I post a new podcast with tips you’ll find in the weekly newsletter and bonus stories, wisdom, and motivation. The Introverted Networker podcast is like the weekly newsletter but with additional narration and thoughts from me. Check out the previous episodes of the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more networking tips and insights.
Here are the three common networking challenges I shared during the session:
1. “I Don’t Know Where to Start”
Challenge: Many people feel overwhelmed because they don’t know where to begin or believe they don’t know anyone who can help.
Solution: Start with your existing network. Reflect on your past jobs and list out people you’ve worked with, especially those you had a good relationship with.
Actionable Tip: Reconnect with dormant ties—people you’ve lost touch with over time. A simple message like, “Hi, it’s been a while! I was thinking of you and would love to catch up,” can be the start of a valuable reconnection.
Learn more about this in TIN #002 - How To Re-Connect With The Network You Already Have
2. “It Feels Awkward”
Challenge: People worry they’re being too forward or that they’ll come across as only looking for a job.
Solution: Shift your mindset to giving rather than taking. Ask your contact how they’re doing, what they’re working on, and see how you can provide value.
Actionable Tip: Give something small but meaningful, like advice, a recommendation, or a relevant article. This act of generosity builds rapport and opens up the possibility for reciprocity.
I share more about what you can give in TIN #004 - How To Make Networking Feel Good
3. “I’m Not Getting Any Responses”
Challenge: Sending out resumes and not hearing back can be discouraging.
Solution: Make it easy for people to help you. Rather than just sending a resume, create a list of target companies or specific roles you’re interested in.
Actionable Tip: Develop a “target company list” with 10-15 companies you’d like to learn more about. This allows your contacts to think more specifically and connect you with the right people.
Not sure how to create a Target Company List, I’ve got you covered in TIN #006 - Don't Give People Your Resume (Do This Instead)
Bonus Tip: How To Find More People To Network With:
During the Q&A, John asked me: What do you do if you have gone through your list of “dormant” ties? Who do you connect with after that?"
Here are a few strategies to keep the momentum going and expand your network further:
1. Utilize LinkedIn to Rediscover Connections:
Go to your LinkedIn profile and look at your past work experiences.
Search for people at those companies, using the filters to include “Past Companies” in your search.
Scroll through the results to see if there are any former colleagues you may have forgotten about or lost touch with.
If you’re already connected with them, send a quick message to check in. If not, send a connection request with a personalized note.
2. Leverage Your Target Company List:
If you have a list of target companies, search for people who currently work there.
Focus on individuals who are active on LinkedIn. You don’t have to send a connection request right away. Instead, start by commenting on their posts and engaging with their content.
This will help them recognize your name when you eventually send a connection request or message, making the introduction smoother.
3. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity:
Your goal isn’t to have hundreds of connections—it’s to build strong relationships with a smaller, targeted group.
Aim for quality over quantity. Having a handful of meaningful connections is more beneficial than trying to keep up with a massive list of acquaintances.
4. Stay Consistent with Your Efforts:
Networking doesn’t need to consume your day. Start with small steps, like dedicating 15 minutes a day to sending a message, engaging with a post, or having a quick phone call.
Consistent, smaller interactions are more sustainable and effective than overwhelming yourself with long networking sessions that may lead to burnout.
5. Create Opportunities Through Conversations:
As you build these relationships, people will naturally introduce you to others. You don’t have to push for introductions immediately; let the connections happen organically.
Remember, each person in your network has their own connections. By nurturing these relationships, you access an extended network of potential contacts and opportunities.
Following these steps will help you keep the momentum going and expand your professional network effectively without overwhelming yourself.