By Sandy Weissinger
I’m often asked, “Can you help me with my job search?”
My first question back is: “What have you done so far?”
The answers are almost always the same:
- “I’ve been searching for entry-level jobs that fit.”
- “I’ve applied to a bunch of openings.”
- “I’m waiting to hear back.”
Here’s the reality: that strategy almost never works.
Most great jobs are filled through conversations, referrals, and relationships – not cold applications. If you want real opportunities, your network is the engine.
- Start With People, Not Postings
Online applications feel productive, but they rarely create momentum. People do.
A student I coached once applied to 100+ jobs and heard nothing. She finally reached out to a few alumni. After four short conversations, someone said, “Send me your resume – we’re opening a role next month.”
She didn’t “apply better.” She connected.
Your starting network is bigger than you think:
- Alumni
- Family friends
- Professors
- Parents’ colleagues
- People you meet at events, church, volunteer roles
- Anyone doing something interesting
You don’t need to find hiring managers. You need conversations.
- Ask for 15-Minute Conversations
One of the most effective moves you can make: “Would you be open to a 10–15 minute conversation so I can learn about your path and get your advice?”
People love sharing their story. Short conversations give you:
- Insight into roles and companies
- Real-world career advice
- A growing group of advocates
Reach out through LinkedIn, email, or in-person when you meet professionals.
Ask simple questions:
- “How did you get started in this field?”
- “What skills matter most in your work?”
- “If you were me, where would you begin?”
- “Who else would you recommend I talk to?” ← The multiplier
One conversation turns into two, then four…that’s how networks grow.
- Follow the Breadcrumbs
Your network compounds when you act on referrals.
A young professional once told me, “I think I networked my way into a job I wasn’t qualified to find.” He talked to one person, got referred to another, then another – until a hiring manager surfaced a role that wasn’t even posted.
This is how opportunities actually move: one warm introduction at a time.
When someone says, “You should talk to Jordan,” reach out that day. It signals professionalism and keeps your momentum going.
- Give Back (Yes, Even Early)
Professionals remember people who:
- Send thoughtful thank-you notes
- Follow up with updates
- Share something relevant or useful
- Stay engaged on LinkedIn
These small touches shift you from asking to adding value.
And that’s when doors start opening.
- When You Apply, You’re No Longer a Stranger
A resume submitted cold is just another file in an applicant tracking system.
But when someone inside can say, “I know her – take a look,” everything changes.
Same resume. Different outcome.
Bottom Line
If you’re early in your career, your job search isn’t about perfecting your documents. It’s about building relationships, credibility, and conversations.
Stop applying in the dark.
Start connecting with the people who can help you get where you want to go.
Your network isn’t a backup plan. It is the plan.
Want to talk more about this strategy and work through it together? Reach out to, info@ascendcollective.org.
