Networking 101: The Key to Job Search & Career Growth

When most people think about job searching, they picture online applications, resume tweaks, and job board scroll marathons. But if you're a tech leader aiming for your next big opportunity, especially at the Director or VP level, this approach alone won't cut it.

Strategic networking is the secret weapon for career advancement, and it's often overlooked by even the most experienced professionals. In fact, up to 85% of leadership  roles are filled through networking, with many never even being posted online.

So how can you tap into this powerful channel? Let's break down what networking really is, why it's essential, and how to use it to supercharge your job search and career trajectory.

🎯 What Is Strategic Networking?

If you've dismissed networking as simple small talk or collecting contacts, it's time to redefine it.

Strategic networking for directors, VPs, and other leaders is about building alliances—not just making acquaintances.

Strategic networking an intentional process of connecting with decision-makers, influencers, and thought leaders in your industry. Think of it as building your own ecosystem of collaborators, advocates, and problem-solvers.

For example, let's say you meet a CTO at an industry conference and strike up a conversation about cross-functional engineering leadership. That discussion could evolve into a collaboration, a mentorship, or even a job opportunity down the line. That's strategic networking in action.

💼 Why Networking Is Essential

Still not convinced? Here's why networking is the #1 tool for job seekers.

✔️ Most Jobs Are Never Posted

According to HubSpot and LinkedIn, 70% of jobs are never publicly listed. These are often high-impact roles created for specific candidates—people the hiring manager already knows or has been referred to.

Strategic networking puts you in that category.

✔️ Referred Candidates Get Hired Faster

Referred candidates are 4X more likely to be hired, and companies report that these hires stay 20% longer.

If your goal is to land a role that aligns with your values and strengths, networking is the key.

✔️ Online Networking Is More Powerful Than Ever

Thanks to LinkedIn, industry Slack groups, and virtual events, your network is no longer limited by geography. In fact, 40% of professionals say they prefer online networking for its flexibility.

That said, in-person interactions often build deeper, faster trust, which is why a hybrid strategy is best.

🧠 Start with Your Value Proposition

Here's the truth: your network can't advocate for you if they don't understand your value.

The foundation of any networking strategy is having a strong, clear value proposition. This is the statement that communicates:

• What you do
• Who you help
• The impact you create

Think of it as the headline of your professional story, the thing people remember and repeat when recommending you.

Need help crafting yours? I created a free value proposition template that walks you step-by-step through this process. It's designed specifically for tech leaders and has helped dozens of clients clarify their message and accelerate their job search.

🔗 Build a Network That Works for You

Once your value proposition is solid, it's time to build out two key lists:

1️⃣ Ideal Contact Advocates (ICAs)

These are colleagues, mentors, and past collaborators who already know the quality of your work. They're in the best position to refer you, but only if you equip them with your value proposition.

Make it easy for them to say, “You need to meet [Your Name]; they specialize in [Your Impact Area], and they'd be perfect for this.”

2️⃣ Target Companies & Roles

Think beyond posted job descriptions. Identify companies you admire or would love to work for, and consider who within these organizations could create the kind of role you want?

Reach out to those decision-makers on LinkedIn. Lead with value. Express curiosity. Don't pitch, start a conversation.

Some will ignore your message. But many will recognize your value and offer a 15-minute call. That's all you need.

📈 Networking = Career Control

When you network with clarity and intention, you:

• Get noticed by the right people
• Gain referrals that speed up the hiring process
• Become the only candidate considered for roles created behind the scenes
• Expand your influence and future-proof your career

For high-level leaders, this isn't optional. It's the strategy that separates those who get stuck from those who soar.

Networking isn't about being “salesy.” Networking involves building meaningful relationships that align with your leadership goals.

Whether you're actively job hunting or just planning ahead, now is the time to grow your network—before you need it.

Start with your value proposition, identify the right people, and lead with value and service. The opportunities will follow.

👀 Watch the full video on this topic and take the first step toward a more connected, influential career.