How to find jobs through the people you know
Building contacts, asking for advice the right way, and using professional networks without being pushy.
Why people matter in a job search
Many jobs are filled with help from people: someone hears that an office needs a new accountant, a former lecturer recommends a student, a colleague passes on an advert before it is widely shared. This isn't about favours or shortcuts. Employers like candidates someone can speak for, and people like helping someone they know is capable.
Networking simply means getting to know people in your field, staying in touch, and helping each other. Done well, it is honest and friendly, and it takes a little time each week.
Start with who you already know
Make a list. It is usually longer than you expect:
- former classmates and college friends, especially those already working;
- lecturers, teachers and internship supervisors;
- former colleagues and managers;
- relatives, neighbours and members of your religious or community groups;
- people you met at events, training or volunteering.
Next to each name, write where they work and what field they are in. You aren't asking each of them for a job. You are finding people who can tell you about their field, their workplace or openings they hear about.
Ask for advice, not a job
"Do you have a job for me?" is hard to answer, and usually the answer is no. "Could I ask you a few questions about working in procurement?" is easy to say yes to. People enjoy talking about their work, and a conversation about advice often leads to useful information and, later, to openings.
A short message works well:
"Hello Neema, I hope you are well. I finished my degree in Procurement and Supply last year and I'm looking for my first role. I saw that you work in procurement at a hospital. Would you have fifteen minutes this week or next for me to ask about your work and what employers look for? I'd be very grateful."
During the conversation, ask what their work involves, which skills matter most, how they found their job, and whether there is anyone else they think you should talk to. Thank them afterwards.
Professional networks online
A professional networking site such as LinkedIn lets employers and contacts find you. If you use one:
- Use a clear, friendly photo and your real name.
- Write a headline that says what you do or want to do, such as "Accountant | CPA candidate | Excel and payroll".
- Fill in your experience and education the same way as on your CV.
- Connect with classmates, colleagues and people in your field, with a short personal note.
- Share or comment on useful posts about your field now and then.
Keep all your public social media respectful. Employers sometimes look you up before inviting you to an interview.
Events, groups and associations
Professional associations, alumni groups, career fairs, workshops and trade shows are good places to meet people in your field. Prepare a short introduction of two sentences: who you are and what kind of work you are looking for. Ask people about their work, listen more than you talk, and exchange phone numbers with those you would like to stay in touch with. Follow up within a few days with a short message.
Do it the right way
- Don't pay for introductions or jobs. If someone asks for money to "connect" you with a job, it is not a real opportunity.
- Don't ask anyone to bend the rules for you. A contact can tell you about an opening or pass on your CV, but you still apply through the proper process, especially in public service.
- Respect people's time. Keep messages short and don't follow up too often.
- Give back. Share adverts you see with friends in other fields, and help others when you can. Networks work because people help each other.
Keep a simple routine
Each week, aim to contact two or three people: one old contact to catch up with, one new person in your field, and one thank-you to someone who helped. Keep a short list of who you spoke to and what they suggested. Over a few months, these small steps build a network that helps you hear about jobs and gives you people who can speak for your work.
More guides
- How to write a CV employers read
- How to write an application letter
- How to prepare for a job interview
- How to apply for a job by email
- How to spot fake job adverts
- Documents to have ready before you apply
- Finding your first job after college
- Applying for government jobs in Tanzania
- What to do after you apply
- Building the skills employers ask for
- How to read a job advert before you apply
- How to find an internship or field attachment
- How to search and apply for jobs using only your phone
- How to choose and prepare your referees
- How to prepare for written tests and aptitude tests
- What to check before you accept a job offer
- How to explain gaps in your CV
- How to move into a new field
- How to do well in your first weeks at a new job