How to Network Effectively When You're Unemployed

Networking while unemployed can feel awkward and uncomfortable. But it's one of the most effective job search strategies—up to 70% of jobs are filled through networking. Here's how to do it effectively.

Mindset First

Reframe Networking

Instead of thinking:

• "I'm begging for help"
• "I'm bothering people"
• "This is desperate"
• "I have nothing to offer"

Think:

• "I'm building relationships"
• "People generally want to help"
• "This is how business works"
• "I have experience and perspective to share"

The Give and Take

Networking isn't one-directional:

• You have insights to share
• You can make introductions too
• Your fresh perspective has value
• Relationships benefit both parties

Start With Your Existing Network

First Circle: Close Contacts

Reach out to:

• Former colleagues
• Close professional friends
• Mentors and mentees
• Former managers
• People who know your work

This group can:

• Vouch for your work
• Make warm introductions
• Share insider information
• Provide references
• Alert you to opportunities

Second Circle: Acquaintances

Consider:

• LinkedIn connections you've met
• Former clients or vendors
• Industry association contacts
• Alumni connections
• People you've worked with briefly

Third Circle: Extended Network

Reach through:

• Friends of friends
• LinkedIn second-degree connections
• Alumni directories
• Professional organizations
• Online communities

Reaching Out Effectively

The Ask

Bad approach:

"Hi, I'm looking for a job. Let me know if you hear of anything."

Better approach:

"Hi Sarah, I hope you're doing well. I recently left [Company] and am exploring opportunities in [specific area]. Given your experience at [Company/Industry], I'd love to get your perspective on the market. Would you have 20 minutes for a quick call sometime this week?"

Key Elements

Effective outreach includes:

• Specific reason for reaching out to them
• Clear but not desperate ask
• Specific time frame
• Making it easy to say yes
• Genuine interest in their perspective

Follow-Up

If no response:

• Wait 5-7 days
• Send one follow-up
• Offer alternative ways to connect
• Accept that some won't respond
• Don't take it personally

Informational Interviews

What They Are

Conversations to learn, not to ask for jobs directly:

• Industry insights
• Company culture information
• Career path advice
• Market intelligence
• Connection to others

How to Request

Sample message:

"Hi [Name], I've been following your work in [area] and am impressed by [specific thing]. I'm currently exploring career options and would value your perspective on [specific topic]. Would you be open to a 20-minute conversation?"

During the Meeting

Do:

• Come prepared with questions
• Be respectful of their time
• Listen more than talk
• Take notes
• Ask for referrals at the end
• Express genuine gratitude

Don't:

• Ask for a job directly
• Go over time
• Complain about former employer
• Be unprepared
• Forget to follow up

The Magic Question

At the end, ask:

"Based on our conversation, is there anyone else you'd recommend I speak with?"

This expands your network exponentially.

LinkedIn Strategies

Optimize Your Profile

While job searching:

• Update headline (can include "Open to Work")
• Refresh summary with keywords
• Ensure experience is current
• Get recommendations
• Use the "Open to Work" feature (visible to recruiters only)

Engage Actively

Regular activities:

• Comment thoughtfully on posts
• Share relevant articles
• Post your own insights
• Congratulate connections
• Join industry conversations

Direct Outreach

When reaching out to strangers:

• Find a connection point
• Be specific about why them
• Keep it brief
• Don't pitch immediately
• Offer value if possible

Networking Events

In-Person Events

Where to find them:

• Industry associations
• Chamber of commerce
• Professional meetups
• Alumni events
• Conferences (some have job seeker rates)

How to work them:

• Set a goal (e.g., 3 meaningful conversations)
• Prepare your introduction
• Ask questions, don't just talk
• Follow up within 48 hours
• Quality over quantity

Virtual Events

Online opportunities:

• Webinars with networking
• Virtual job fairs
• Twitter chats
• LinkedIn events
• Industry Discord/Slack communities

Maintaining Relationships

Stay in Touch

Keep relationships warm:

• Schedule regular check-ins
• Share relevant articles
• Congratulate on achievements
• Offer help when possible
• Update on your progress

Provide Value

Ways to give back:

• Make introductions
• Share job postings for others
• Provide industry insights
• Offer your expertise
• Be a good listener

Handling Common Situations

"We're Not Hiring"

Response:

"I understand completely. I'm really just hoping to learn more about [industry/company/role]. Any insights you can share would be valuable, and I'd welcome any suggestions for others I might speak with."

"Send Me Your Resume"

Response:

"Thank you so much. I'll send it right after our call. Could you tell me a bit more about what [company/team] is looking for? I want to make sure I highlight the most relevant experience."

When You Get a Lead

Follow up promptly:

• Thank the referrer
• Research before applying
• Mention the connection
• Keep the referrer informed
• Update on outcome

Building Long-Term Network

Think Beyond This Job Search

• Invest in relationships for the long term
• Stay connected even after you land
• Pay it forward to others
• Build before you need
• Maintain relationships ongoing

Your Future Self

The network you build now:

• Helps with future career moves
• Provides ongoing industry intelligence
• Creates opportunities you can't predict
• Supports others in your position
• Becomes a professional community

Related Resources:

• LinkedIn Optimization →
• Networking Strategies →
• Interview Preparation →
• Mental Health During Job Search →