How to Use Local Networking for Job Opportunities

🤝 Networking in Germany: It’s More Than Just Job Hunting! In a recent poll, you voted that, besides finding the right companies, your biggest challenge is networking. Here’s how you can expand your network and find hidden job opportunities: 🔹 1. Join Industry Events & Meetups ✅ Tech conferences (e.g., Bits & Pretzels, OMR, Web Summit) ✅ Startup events (e.g., Berlin Startup Night, Hamburg Startups) ✅ Meetup.com events in your industry (IT, finance, marketing, consulting) ✅ Local Chamber of Commerce or professional networking events 💡 Tip: Many companies hire through referrals, so even a casual conversation at an event could lead to an opportunity! 🔹 2. Use LinkedIn the Right Way LinkedIn is a place to build relationships. ✅ Follow professionals in your field and comment on their posts ✅ Send personalized connection requests ✅ Join LinkedIn groups relevant to your expertise ✅ Share your own knowledge (projects, industry insights, trends) 💡 Tip: Instead of writing, "Hi, can you help me find a job?", try: "Hi [Name], I see you're in [industry]. I’m new to Germany and would love to exchange insights. Let’s connect!" 🔹 3. Get Involved in Sports & Hobby Circles 🏀🎨🎸 Networking isn’t just professional—it’s also social! Some of the best connections happen in hobby groups and sports clubs. ✅ Join a local gym, running club, football team, yoga group ✅ Sign up for art classes, book clubs, language meetups ✅ Play in a band or music group ✅ Volunteer for local events & organizations 💡 Why? Germans value trust and long-term relationships. If people know you personally, they’re more likely to help you professionally. 🇩🇪 Bonus: You can also practice your German while meeting people. Even basic German can help you integrate, build trust, and access more job opportunities. 🔹 4. Use the “Coffee Chat” Strategy ☕ Many people land jobs through casual conversations. ✅ Reach out to professionals in your industry ✅ Invite them for a 15-20 minute virtual coffee chat ✅ Ask about their career path, industry trends, and advice ✅ Focus on learning & relationship-building, not just job searching 💡 Tip: People remember genuine conversations. If they hear of a job opening, they might think of you first! 🔹 5. Explore Online Communities & Hidden Job Markets Many job leads come from WhatsApp, Slack, or Facebook groups. 🔹 Slack communities: Berlin Tech Workers, Startup Jobs Germany 🔹 Facebook groups: “English Jobs in Germany” / “Expats in [city]” 🔹 Internations.org: Great for meeting professionals in Germany 💡 Tip: Actively engage in discussions. The more visible you are, the more opportunities will come your way! 🌍 Final Thought: Networking is not just about job hunting—it’s about integrating, building trust, and forming connections. When you participate in events, hobbies, and professional communities, you naturally expand your opportunities. #Networking #JobSearch #Germany #CareerTips #ExpatLife #LinkedInNetworking #Integration

A SWE landed an interview at Capital One from a networking event. Not because he was the most outgoing person in the room. And not because he had a stacked resume. But because he came prepared. He knew what to say. Who to talk to. What questions to ask. He connected with several new people at the event. And one of them referred him to an open position 2 weeks later. Here's a simple guide so you can do the same: 1. 𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁𝘂𝗽 𝗼𝗿 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗯𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂. → It's easier to talk when you actually care about the topic. Prioritize recurring meetings in your area. But one-off meetings are fine, too. 2. 𝗟𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁. → Check for Discord groups, Slack channels, or public guest lists. Shoot them a short message on LinkedIn like: "Saw you're attending [Event Name] next week. Would love to connect!" And chat with them a bit before the event. Seeing a familiar face makes it easier to break the ice. 3. 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 "𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗱𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗼?" → Most people respond with a job title and a company. BORING. Have an elevator pitch ready that sparks curiosity. "𝘐 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘱 𝘦-𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘤𝘬𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘴 𝘱𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘶𝘵𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘤𝘳𝘢𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨." Now they have a reason to ask: "How are you doing that?" "What tech stack are you using?" 4. 𝗕𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝘀𝗸 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗺. → Good conversations come from interest in others. • What were you hoping to get out of the event? • Was there anyone specific you were hoping to meet? • What's the most interesting project you've worked on lately? 5. 𝗚𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗶𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻. → A great conversation means nothing if you never see them again. Connect on LinkedIn or get their phone or email. Whatever they're comfortable sharing. Make it easy to stay in touch. 6. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 → The event is just an introduction. Send a follow up ASAP. Plan a coffee chat or set up a virtual meeting. If there's overlap, collaborate on something interesting. That's how real relationships are built. 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆: Networking doesn't always reward extroverted people. It rewards people who show up with a plan. Try this at your next event. Let me know how it goes. P.S. Have you ever built a connection from a networking event?

🌐 Are Your Networking Messages Going Unanswered? Here’s How to Change That! 🌐 If you’re reaching out to people and not hearing back, you’re not alone. Many job seekers experience this—but here’s the thing: Networking isn’t just about sending messages; it’s about building genuine connections. Here’s how to get responses and turn your outreach into real opportunities: 1️⃣ Shift from Cold Outreach to Warm Introductions The “cold message” can often be met with silence. Start by reaching out to people who already know, like, and trust you—your power circle (friends, past colleagues, or even family members). They’re more likely to introduce you to someone in your target company, turning a cold connection into a warm introduction. 👉 Example: Message a former coworker: “Hi [Name], I’m exploring roles in [Industry] and thought of reaching out to you for advice. Do you know anyone at [Company] who might be open to a chat?” 2️⃣ Make It Easy for People to Help You Be specific about the kind of help you’re seeking. It’s easier for someone to assist if they know exactly what you’re looking for! Provide a shortlist of companies or roles to give them direction. 👉 Example: “I’m currently focused on roles at [Company A, Company B, Company C]. If you know anyone there who could offer insight, I’d appreciate any connection or advice you might have!” 3️⃣ Personalize Every Message Generic outreach messages are easy to ignore. Show you’ve done your research by referencing something specific about the person’s work, recent achievements, or shared connections. Personal touches help your message stand out from the crowd. 👉 Example: “Hi [Name], I saw your post about [Topic], and I really appreciated your insights. I’d love to connect and learn more about your role at [Company] as I explore similar opportunities.” 4️⃣ Focus on Relationship-Building, Not Immediate Favors Networking is more than just reaching out with a request. Engage with your connections over time by commenting on their posts, sharing resources, or offering help where you can. When you nurture relationships, people are more willing to help when the time comes. 👉 Example: “I noticed you’re speaking at [Event]. Congrats! If there’s any way I can help promote it, let me know.” Showing support without asking for anything in return builds goodwill. 5️⃣ Follow Up, but Don’t Be Pushy People get busy, and your message may have slipped through the cracks. A polite follow-up can remind them without feeling intrusive. Give it at least a week before sending a gentle nudge. 👉 Example: “Hi [Name], I just wanted to circle back in case my last message got buried. I’d still love to connect when you have a chance. Thank you!” 💡 Final Thought: Networking isn’t a one-time outreach—it’s an ongoing relationship. Build trust, offer support, and be specific in your asks. This approach won’t just get your messages noticed; it’ll help you grow meaningful connections over time.

I recently go asked "what is one thing that no one tells you about networking when you're an international student?" When I came to the U.S. 6 years ago to study Data Science, I had no idea how important networking would be for my career. Coming from Spain, I thought hard work and a good resume would be enough. Spoiler: it wasn’t. As an international student, job hunting comes with extra challenges: visas, sponsorships, and navigating a system that sometimes feels overwhelming. But here’s the truth: networking changed everything for me. Here’s what worked: 1️⃣ Reaching out to alumni: - I was at Suffolk University in Boston, and I used LinkedIn to connect with alumni in Data Science. At first, it felt awkward—what could I possibly say? But I learned this: people love sharing advice when you ask the right questions. Instead of asking for jobs, I asked about their journeys, challenges, and advice. Those conversations didn’t just lead to referrals; they gave me confidence and clarity. 2️⃣ Leveraging LinkedIn: - LinkedIn became more than just a job board. I posted about projects I was working on, shared my thoughts on the industry, and commented on others’ posts. Over time, recruiters and professionals in my field started noticing me. 3️⃣ Attending industry events: - From local meetups to webinars, I treated every event as a learning opportunity. The key wasn’t handing out resumes—it was making meaningful connections. One conversation at a career fair even led to an internship that shaped my path. Looking back, I realized networking isn’t just about getting a job—it’s about building relationships. As an international student, those connections helped me navigate a career system I didn’t grow up in, and they became my biggest advantage. What’s your go-to strategy for networking? Let’s share tips below—I’d love to hear what’s worked for you!

The best piece of advice I was given about networking: Don't give people your resume. Do this instead! When I was 38, a former colleague gave me an unforgettable piece of advice. I was starting to look for a new job after being laid off. I'd been running myself ragged trying to meet people who could help me. But, like most beginners, I was making a lot of mistakes: • Applying online for jobs and never hearing back • Going to useless networking events, and • Cold calling the wrong people, Until one day, my colleague said to me: "𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙖 𝙏𝙖𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝘾𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙇𝙞𝙨𝙩." That day, my whole approach to networking changed. A Target Company List (TCL) is a list of companies you are interested in learning more about. These are companies where you might want to work. It’s: • A physical, formal list. It doesn’t live “in your head” • Formatted like a resume. You could hand it to someone. • Not laminated. You can make adds and changes to it as you get feedback You create this list by thinking of the type of companies where you want to work. Ask yourself: • Which industry do I want to be in? • What size company do I want to work at? • Which companies have values that align with mine? • Which companies have job postings I’ve applied to? • Which companies are on “Best Places To Work For” lists? Once you create your professionally formatted list, you start giving it to people during networking meetings. Either hand them a physical, paper copy or send it via email. When I got this advice from my colleague, I didn’t understand why the TCL would work, but as I used it over the years, I’ve come to understand why it’s an effective networking tool. When you're in a networking conversation and the other person says, “How can I help you,” most people give them their resume. This makes you hard to help. Who should the person give your resume to? On the other hand, if you give them your TCL and ask, “Do you know anyone who works at one of these companies,” it’s easy for them to say “Yes” or “No.” If they say “Yes,” they can introduce you to the person via email. Now, you know someone at one of your target companies. If they say “No,” you can ask if there are other companies like the ones on the list where they know someone. If they do, you get and introduction at a company you have never considered. If they still don’t know anyone or any companies, let them take the list home. There’s a good chance they’ll think of someone later. The TCL forces you to get specific about how other people can help you. The more specific you are about how someone can help you, the more likely you are to get help. P.S. - This weekend, I'm sharing another tip on Being Easy To Help in 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙄𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙉𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙧. This is my weekly newsletter where I teach you to be a better networker. Not a subscriber? Sign up for FREE when you hit the link under my headline at the top of the post ☝️

How to Get a Job When No One Is Hiring I’ve never gotten a job by applying for one. Not once. Every opportunity I’ve ever had came through people — not postings. When the market slows and no one’s hiring, your network becomes everything. Here’s how to get noticed when everyone else is getting ignored: 1. Request informational interviews — not job interviews. Reach out directly to company leaders or people you admire. Tell them you’re not asking for a job; you just want to learn about their industry. Come prepared with thoughtful topics — ask about emerging trends, new technologies, shifting customer behaviors, or how their company is adapting. Then listen more than you talk. People remember curiosity. 2. Position yourself like a brand, not an applicant. Update your LinkedIn headline to reflect what you do, not just your title. Post your thoughts on industry trends, share lessons you’ve learned, and show how you think. Visibility builds credibility. 3. Engage with the companies you want to work for. Follow their pages. Comment meaningfully on leadership posts. Offer perspective that adds value to the conversation — not just “great post.” 4. Go where your future coworkers already are. Attend regional user groups, conferences, and community events in your field. If you want a job in sales, show up at your local Salesforce.com user group and start connecting with people who live and breathe that world. The best opportunities are often found in conversations, not job boards. 5. Build something visible. Don’t wait for permission to prove your value. Create a mini project that shows your skills — a prototype, a personal site, a content series, or even a process improvement idea for your target industry. When hiring freezes lift, the person who’s been building will always stand out over the one who’s been waiting. 6. Create an industry survey. This is one of the smartest ways to meet potential employers without asking for a job. Build a simple survey about trends, challenges, or innovations in your space — then reach out to leaders and companies to participate. After collecting responses, turn the data into a short white paper and send it back to everyone who contributed. You’ll have hit them twice — once for input and again with value. Plus, you can post the survey and results on LinkedIn to position yourself as someone who understands the industry. And if nothing clicks? Start your own company. Because sometimes the best way to get a job is to create one. #entrepreneurs #founders #b2bsaas #hiring

How do people really find jobs in Switzerland? It’s not only through job boards. Many job seekers still spend 90% of their time sending applications online - yet research and experience show that around 70% of roles are filled via networking and referrals before they’re ever advertised. As a Career Transition Coach in Switzerland, I speak with job seekers on a daily basis and I see the same pattern: Those who focus only on applications often get stuck, while those who invest in their network and visibility create opportunities faster. That means the most effective strategy is not just applying, it’s about being visible and connected: 1. Build an online presence (LinkedIn profile, thought leadership posts, portfolio work) 2. Nurture and activate your network (former colleagues, peers, alumni, mentors) 3. Use direct outreach (messaging hiring managers, engaging in industry groups) 4. Stay open to recruiter approaches (many employers target passive candidates first) In short: job search success today = 30% applications + 70% networking. Employers hire people they know, people they see, and people who come recommended. So if you’re only focusing on job boards, you might be playing with just 30% of the deck. What about you- when you landed your last role, was it through applying online, or through someone in your network? Do you agree with my recommendations of investing in your network? Curious to hearing your thoughs. #networking #careertransition #jobsinswitzerland #careercoach

I've discovered a powerful truth in my years leading Jobscan: the best job opportunities rarely make it to public job boards. 📢 From my experience, the most exciting roles come through community connections, not job sites. When you participate in niche communities, you gain access to a hidden job market where opportunities are shared through trusted networks. Here's what I personally recommend: 1️⃣ Find Your Communities: Identify 2-3 online groups relevant to your industry. I've found searching for "Slack communities for [your job title]" or exploring Discord and Reddit yields great results. 2️⃣ Listen First: I always advise joining and observing conversations before diving in. This helps you understand the community dynamics. 3️⃣ Add Value: Start contributing by asking thoughtful questions and sharing your expertise. At Jobscan, we've seen that building genuine connections, not just collecting contacts, is what truly opens doors. I believe your next career breakthrough might be just one conversation away. I'm curious - what are your favorite niche communities for your industry? #Networking #HiddenJobMarket #JobSearch

Tired of sending DMs to hiring managers and getting ignored? It’s not that people don’t want to help. It’s that your approach is transactional. Here’s how to network for real - without being pushy or awkward: 🔁 STEP 1: Warm Them Up Don’t start with a message. Start with presence. → Follow them on LinkedIn. → Comment thoughtfully on 2–3 of their recent posts. → Like or re-share their content with your own takeaway. People notice patterns. You want them to recognize your name before you ever hit send. 💬 STEP 2: Send a Human Message After a week or two, try this: > “Hi [Name], I’ve been following your content and love your perspective. I especially liked your post on [insert topic]. > I’m exploring opportunities in [industry/role] and would love to ask you a few quick questions about your journey at [Company]. > If you’re open to it, I’d be grateful.” No pitch. No resume. No “Can you refer me?” Just curiosity and respect. 👂 STEP 3: Ask Better Questions If they’re kind enough to say yes, don’t waste it. Ask things like: → “What surprised you most when you started at [Company]?” → “What would you focus on if you were entering this industry today?” → “What do you wish candidates knew before applying here?” This shows them you’re thoughtful - not desperate. ✅ STEP 4: Follow Up Like a Pro → Thank them. Be specific. → Wait a few days. → Then, if it feels right, say: “If a role opens up that seems like a fit, would you be open to passing my resume along?” It’s warm. It’s earned. It works. Real networking doesn’t start with a message. It starts with showing up. Now let’s get you that job.

Want to get in early at the next big start-up? You’re not going to land it through applications alone. When most people start job searching, they spend 90% of their time on applications, and 10% on networking. It’s backwards. Every big opportunity I’ve landed started with a conversation. Here’s what you need to know before you start: 📩 Clarity → know what you’re looking for and where you’re headed, so others can actually help you. 📩 Curiosity → reaching out because you’re genuinely interested in talking, not just asking for a favor. 📩 Consistency → doing it often enough that luck has a chance to find you. The best networkers I’ve coached aren’t the loudest in the room. They’re the ones who take time to listen, follow up, and show genuine interest. Swipe through for the exact framework I use to help founders and operators build real relationships that lead to the top startup jobs. And follow these five bonus tips to build your network: Research every person you reach out to. See what they’re interested in, what they’re working on, what they care about. Find small, genuine ways to offer value. Maybe they love coffee and Paris, and you send them a café recommendation for their next trip. Small details like that build a real connection. Reconnect with loose ties. Send a simple “Congrats on X - would love to hear how things are going.” message on LinkedIn. Use asynchronous networking. Comment on LinkedIn posts, reply to newsletters, or share an article someone wrote. Low-pressure, high visibility. Follow up every time. A thank-you note, an update, or a helpful link shows you value their time. Play the long game. Networking isn’t about what you can get today, it’s about building trust so opportunities come to you tomorrow. Networking is a skill, not a personality trait. And it’s one anyone can master with consistency.