Why Networking Matters
The Hidden Job Market
Networking was a game-changer for me.
Most of the events I went to were free and centred around areas I was genuinely interested in, which meant I always walked away inspired, not just by the people I met, but by what I learned as well.
Every time I showed up, I met incredible people. Those conversations often led to introductions to others, new opportunities, or connections with people who shared my interests and curiosity.
I didn’t walk in knowing exactly what I wanted. I just showed up, stayed open, and kept talking to people. Over time, those small connections added up — and they played a huge role in shaping my career path.
This section is about helping you see networking not as something awkward or transactional, but as something human, accessible, and genuinely powerful.
And it turns out my experience isn’t unique.
Here's the uncomfortable truth:
70% of jobs are NEVER posted publicly
85% of jobs are filled through networking
80% of professionals say networking is essential to career success
70% of people hired in 2016 had a connection at their company
What does this mean for you?
If you're only applying to jobs online, you're competing for 30% of available positions with hundreds (sometimes thousands) of other applicants. The other 70% of jobs are filled through:
Internal referrals
Recruiter networks
Professional connections
Informational interviews that led to "we should create a role for you"
For university students: Most of your peers will wait until graduation to start networking. By then, you're competing with everyone else. Start now. The internships, full-time positions, and mentorships available through networking during university are HUGE advantages.
For career changers: This is your lifeline. You can't compete on experience alone. But through networking, you can access opportunities specifically designed for career changers, companies that value your diverse background, and hiring managers who are willing to take risks on people transitioning into new industries.
Why Career Changers Need Networking
If you’re a career changer, networking isn’t optional; it’s how doors open.
Here's why:
1. You don't have traditional industry experience
When your CV doesn't scream "perfect fit," relationships become your credibility. A warm introduction from someone inside the company carries more weight than a cold application.
2. You need insider knowledge
How do you know if a role is actually a good fit? How do tech companies hire differently from corporates? What skills are REALLY valued in your new industry? You can't Google that; you learn it from people in the field.
3. You need advocates, not gatekeepers
Career changers need people who will vouch for their potential, not just their past. Networking builds those advocates, people who say, "I know they don't have the exact background, but trust me, they'll be great."
4. You need to practice articulating your story
Every networking conversation is practice for telling your "why I'm changing careers" story in a way that makes sense to employers.
5. Referrals have the highest success rate
Only 7% of applications are referrals, yet they account for 40% of hires. That's a 5.7x higher chance of getting hired when you have a connection.
Why University Students Need Networking
If you’re a university student, the relationships you build now shape your future.
1. You have institutional access
Your university has alumni networks, professors with industry connections, and career services. USE THEM. Your university's network is one of the most valuable assets you'll ever have.
2. You can build relationships with less pressure
Networking as a student feels less transactional. People expect students to reach out and learn. They're more willing to help. Use this window before you're "competing" for jobs.
3. You have time to build genuine relationships
If you start in the second year, you have 2-3 years to nurture relationships before you graduate. People remember you. They'll recommend you. They'll reach out when opportunities arise.
4. You can leverage internships as networking opportunities
Every internship is a chance to build 5-10 genuine professional relationships. If you do 2-3 internships, you already have a network of 15-30 professionals by graduation.
5. Early networking leads to better first jobs
Students who network get better internships, better first jobs, and better mentorship. This compounds into career advantages that last for decades.
Why Professionals Who Want More From Their Career Need Networking
If you’re not actively job hunting but know you want more — more growth, more challenge, more impact, networking still matters.
Here’s why:
1. Opportunities find you before you go looking
When you’ve built genuine relationships, people think of you when roles, projects, or secondments come up. By the time you’re ready to move, you’re already on someone’s radar.
2. It sharpens how you communicate and show up
Regular conversations with people outside your immediate team help you practise articulating your ideas, experience, and ambitions. This is especially powerful if you’re stepping into leadership or wanting to be seen differently at work.
3. You gain exposure to better leadership models
Many events feature leaders who openly share how they’ve grown, failed, and led well. If you’re not seeing that kind of leadership in your current role, these spaces can be incredibly inspiring and grounding.
4. It expands your perspective beyond your workplace
Networking reminds you that your current environment isn’t the only way things can be done. You hear how other teams, industries, and leaders operate, which often sparks clarity around what you do (and don’t) want next.
5. It builds confidence before you need it
You don’t network when you’re ready to leave; you network so that when the moment comes, you’re confident, connected, and prepared.