What you need to remember when networking in 2025 and beyond

Jobseekers, there is a better, productive way to network - whether you are an extrovert or introvert or not savvy in networking.

The reality is that networking right in 2025 isn’t just about sending more LinkedIn messages—it’s about building thoughtful, respectful two-way relationships. When you lead with engagement, curiosity, and value, hiring managers are far more likely to take notice.

Seven simple networking strategies to consider to enhance your career success:

1. Build before you reach out

✅ Engage with their content for several weeks before messaging—meaningful comments, celebrating milestones, or asking thoughtful questions helps you stand out authentically. Then when you send a connection request, it’s a warm request. This kind of warm-up is often skipped. 

2. Choose actively visible managers

🔍 Don’t reach out to dormant profiles. Prioritize those who post regularly and engage with others. These people are far more responsive, and you'll be part of a natural, mutual dialogue. 

3. Frame your ask as mutual value

🤝 Most advice talks about how you benefit, but few discuss how you can help in return. Offer to:

• Connect them with someone in your network

• Share industry insights

• Provide thoughtful feedback on their recent post

  
  

This reciprocity builds trust and positions you as more than just another jobseeker. 

4. Use informational interviews, not job pitches

🎙️ Skip asking for a job outright. Instead, request a 15-minute chat to learn about their path, the team, or culture. It shows curiosity, respect, and long-term thinking. Very few people realize this approach differentiates you. 

5. Combine LinkedIn with targeted cold outreach

✉️ If the hiring manager is listed on the job post, reach out after applying with a brief, personalized message that highlights shared values or context. This increases visibility and can fast-track conversations. 

6. Treat your profile like a showcase, not resume

🎯 A hiring manager will review your profile before responding. If it's outdated or sparse, you'll lose credibility instantly. Your headline and About should position you as a thoughtful match—not just an applicant. 

7. Accept low response rates—but keep the cadence

📉 You might hear back from only ~40% of outreach—even from the right people. That’s normal. Persistence and consistent follow-up—with value-added messages—fuel wins. 

Find out more ways to improve your LinkedIn response rates .

📌 Quick Networking Tips

• Warm up via engagement - increases familiarity and trust

• Target active posters - generates greater responses

• Offer value, not ask - builds two-way relationships

• Use informational interviews - helps you become more memorable and respectful

• Follow-up after applying - signals initiative and ambition

• Polish your LinkedIn profile - first impressions are significant

• Stay persistent - one reply can foster success

Need professional career support? Contact Creative Horizons Communications - your trusted partner helping you enhance your career success. We help you think creatively and embrace a new career horizon.